Loading map...
RDU → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the premium choice for this transcontinental route as it offers the most direct views of the Grand Canyon, Lake Mead, and the Las Vegas Strip, concluding with a dramatic vista of the Los Angeles skyline during the final descent into LAX.
Search flights from RDU to LAX
Mississippi River
The winding silver ribbon of America's largest river system visible near the halfway point of the journey.
Grand Canyon
The world's most famous canyon system, typically visible to the north about 45-60 minutes before arrival.
Lake Mead
The deep blue waters of the reservoir contrasted against the stark, colorful Nevada desert terrain.
Las Vegas Strip
The iconic skyline of themed hotels and the Sphere visible as the flight begins its descent over Nevada.
San Gabriel Mountains
Towering peaks that border the northern edge of the Los Angeles basin, often snow-capped in winter.
Downtown LA
Stunning close-up views of the Wilshire Grand and US Bank Tower during the final minutes of the approach.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the glare of the southern sun. Keep your eyes peeled for the Grand Canyon shortly after crossing into Arizona. For the best views of the Hollywood sign and the downtown skyscrapers, ensure your window shade is up and camera ready during the final 10 minutes of the flight.
Book Hotels in Los AngelesGreat Smoky Mountains
Lush, misty mountain views visible shortly after departure as you cross the Tennessee border.
Agricultural Patchwork
Distinctive circular irrigation patterns creating a geometric quilt across the Texas panhandle.
Arizona Mesas
Striking red rock formations and flat-topped mesas near the southern edge of the Painted Desert.
Salton Sea
A massive, reflective inland saline lake visible in the California desert south of the flight path.
San Jacinto Peak
A dramatic 10,834-foot mountain rising sharply above the desert floor near Palm Springs.
OC Coastline
Glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and Huntington Beach if the flight patterns south before landing.
Choose the left side for morning departures to keep the sun behind the aircraft, ensuring better visibility and photo quality. This side is also excellent for catching the sunset over the Pacific if you are on a late afternoon flight. During the final approach, the left side often gets a better view of the Long Beach port and the Queen Mary.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 3,595 km (2,234 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 14 min
Departure: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.