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PVR → MEX
Which side of the plane to sit from Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (Puerto Vallarta) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is significantly more scenic, offering views of Lake Chapala, the Nevado de Colima, and the breathtaking Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes upon arrival.
Cabo Corrientes
The southern tip of Banderas Bay as the plane turns inland toward the east.
Lake Chapala
Mexico's largest freshwater lake, often appearing as a massive blue expanse to the south.
Nevado de Colima
The towering volcanic peaks of Colima visible in the distance across the Jalisco highlands.
The Twin Volcanoes
Unrivaled views of the snow-capped Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl during the descent.
CDMX Historic Center
Aerial views of the Zócalo, Cathedral, and the dense urban core on final approach.
For the most iconic experience, sit on the right side to see the active Popocatépetl volcano. Early morning flights provide the best lighting for photography as the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the mountains. Note that 'Popo' often emits a plume of smoke which is best captured from this side during the standard 'Lucero' arrival route into MEX.
Vallarta Skyline
View of the northern hotel zone and Nuevo Vallarta during initial ascent.
Sierra Madre Occidental
Expansive views of the rugged green ridges of the western mountain range.
Santa Fe District
The modern skyscraper cluster of Mexico City's business district visible during descent.
Basilica of Guadalupe
The massive religious complex in the north of the city seen just before touchdown.
The left side is preferable for viewing the northern sprawl of the Mexico City basin. Choose this side for afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun. Keep an eye out for the Teotihuacán pyramids in the far distance if the flight takes a wider northern approach path.
Distance: 660 km (410 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 6 min
Departure: PVR (20.680099487304688, -105.25399780273438)
Arrival: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Route Type: Domestic
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