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SAN → HOU
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to William P Hobby Airport (Houston)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Salton Sea shortly after takeoff and better visibility of the diverse desert landforms across Arizona and New Mexico, including the distant white shimmer of gypsum dunes.
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Salton Sea
A massive, sun-scorched saline lake in the California desert providing a sharp blue contrast to the sand.
Sonoran Landscapes
The rugged mountains and vast valleys north of Phoenix, showing off classic Southwest geology.
White Sands Glimpse
On clear days, the bright white gypsum dunes of southern New Mexico are visible on the northern horizon.
Permian Basin Grids
Intricate geometric patterns created by oil access roads and drill pads across West Texas.
Texas Hill Country
The transition from arid desert to the rolling green limestone hills of Central Texas.
Choose this side for the best lighting on eastbound morning flights, as the sun will be on the opposite side. Watch for the Salton Sea approximately 15-20 minutes after departure from SAN. In winter, you may see snow-capped peaks in the distance over the Gila Wilderness.
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San Diego Bay
Immediate views of Coronado Island, the Naval fleet, and the downtown skyline during the climb.
The Borderlands
Unique aerial perspectives of the international boundary and the sprawling city of Tijuana.
Franklin Mountains
The rocky spine that splits the city of El Paso, visible as you cross the Rio Grande.
Chihuahuan Desert
Expansive views of the high desert and distant peaks near the Big Bend region of Texas.
Galveston Bay
During the descent into HOU, look for the Houston Ship Channel and the Gulf of Mexico coastline.
Sit here if you want to see the international border and the unique urban layout of El Paso and Juárez. Be aware that the southern exposure means direct sunlight for much of the trip; keep your window shade partially down to avoid glare on afternoon flights.
Book Hotels in HoustonDistance: 2,108 km (1,310 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 49 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: HOU (29.64539909, -95.27890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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