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PVR → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (Puerto Vallarta) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer incredible views of the Mexican coastline and the Baja Peninsula, the right side is slightly superior for its sweeping views of the Sierra Madre mountains, the diverse islands of the Gulf of California, and the iconic aerial panorama of San Diego Bay upon arrival.
Sierra Madre Occidental
Early in the flight, view the dramatic, jagged peaks of the mainland Mexican mountain ranges to the east.
Islands of the Gulf
Aerial views of the Mid-Drift Islands and the turquoise waters surrounding Isla Tiburón in the Sea of Cortez.
Sierra de San Pedro Mártir
Look for Picacho del Diablo, the highest peak on the Baja Peninsula, often dusted with snow in winter months.
Coronado Bridge & Bay
The quintessential San Diego view featuring the sweeping blue bridge, the Naval base, and the Silver Strand beach.
Balboa Park
Just seconds before landing, you will soar directly over the California Tower and the lush greenery of the park's museums.
The right side is generally better for photography as it avoids the direct afternoon sun when flying North-Northwest. Keep your camera ready during the last 5 minutes of the flight; the approach into SAN is one of the most scenic in the world, and the right side captures the full curve of the Coronado Bridge and the bustling harbor.
Banderas Bay
Immediately after takeoff from PVR, you'll get a sprawling view of the deep blue waters and the lush coastline of Puerto Vallarta.
Baja California Coastline
As the flight crosses the Gulf, you'll see the rugged, arid western cliffs of the Baja Peninsula meeting the Pacific Ocean.
Downtown San Diego Skyscrapers
On the final descent into SAN, the left side offers an incredibly close-up view of the city's high-rise buildings.
Pacific Horizon
Perfect for late afternoon flights to catch the sun setting over the open ocean as you head north.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights if you want to see the sunset, but be prepared for high solar glare. During the landing at SAN, look out the window about 2 minutes before touchdown to see the 'urban canyon' effect as you fly past downtown office buildings at eye-level.
Distance: 1,787 km (1,110 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 23 min
Departure: PVR (20.680099487304688, -105.25399780273438)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: International
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