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SAL → MGA
Which side of the plane to sit from Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (San Salvador) to Augusto C. Sandino (Managua) International Airport (Managua)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Central American Volcanic Arc, featuring steaming peaks, the rugged Gulf of Fonseca, and the massive Lake Managua.
San Vicente Volcano
Also known as Chinchontepec, this striking twin-peaked stratovolcano is visible shortly after departure from SAL.
Gulf of Fonseca
A stunning panoramic view of the shared maritime border between El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
San Cristóbal Complex
Nicaragua's highest and most active volcano, often seen with a visible plume of gas venting from its crater.
Cerro Negro
One of the world's youngest and most active volcanoes, recognizable by its distinct dark, ash-covered slopes.
Lake Managua (Xolotlán)
The massive lake serves as a backdrop for the iconic Momotombo volcano during the final descent into MGA.
Sit forward of the wing for unobstructed views of the volcanic chain. Morning flights are ideal as afternoon clouds often gather around the mountain peaks, and the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for photography of the craters.
Jiquilisco Bay
El Salvador's largest coastal estuary, featuring intricate mangrove channels and diverse ecosystems.
Meanguera Island
The largest island in the Gulf of Fonseca, appearing as a rugged green jewel in the blue Pacific waters.
Cosigüina Volcano
Located on the tip of the peninsula, this volcano contains a beautiful crater lake within its massive caldera.
Nicaraguan Pacific Coast
Stretches of dark volcanic sand beaches and remote coves visible as the flight tracks the coastline.
Managua Cityscape
During the final approach, enjoy a broad view of the sprawling capital city and its unique lack of a traditional high-rise center.
The right side is excellent for sunset flights, offering views of the sun dipping into the Pacific Ocean. Look for the glint of sunlight off the water in the Gulf of Fonseca. During the rainy season (May-Oct), the landscape is significantly greener and more vibrant.
Distance: 345 km (214 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: SAL (13.4409, -89.055702)
Arrival: MGA (12.14150047302246, -86.16819763183594)
Route Type: International
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