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PSP → PHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Palm Springs International Airport (Palm Springs) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left side offers a superior vantage point for Joshua Tree National Park and the striking transition between the Mojave and Sonoran desert ecosystems.
Joshua Tree National Park
Massive granite monoliths and the dense Joshua Tree forests of the high desert.
San Bernardino Mountains
The snow-capped peaks of San Gorgonio Wilderness visible to the northwest.
Sheep Hole Mountains
Rugged and remote desert peaks within the Mojave Trails National Monument.
White Tank Mountains
The final major mountain range before entering the Phoenix metropolitan sprawl.
North Phoenix Valley
Views of Camelback Mountain and the urban grid of Glendale and Peoria during descent.
Choose the left side for morning departures to avoid direct sun glare. Shortly after takeoff, the plane climbs over the Coachella Valley, providing an expansive view of the desert floor. Look for the distinct line where the developed valley meets the wilderness of Joshua Tree. This side is also excellent for seeing the 'miniature' look of the Phoenix grid layout during the approach.
Mount San Jacinto
The sheer 10,000-foot granite face that towers over Palm Springs immediately after takeoff.
The Salton Sea
California's largest lake shimmering in the distance to the south.
Colorado River
The bright blue ribbon of water and green agricultural fields near the town of Blythe.
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Sharp, jagged volcanic spires and deep canyons in the heart of the Arizona desert.
South Mountain Park
One of the largest municipal parks in the US, signaling your final approach into PHX.
The right side is the choice for seeing the Colorado River crossing clearly. During late afternoon flights, the setting sun illuminates the red rocks of the Kofa Mountains beautifully. Upon arrival in Phoenix, if the plane lands heading West, you will get a spectacular view of the downtown skyline and the distinctive 'Papago Park' buttes.
Distance: 418 km (260 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 42 min
Departure: PSP (33.829700469970696, -116.50700378417967)
Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Route Type: Domestic
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