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SAN → IAH
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the initial climb over the Pacific Ocean, the stark contrast of the Imperial Valley agriculture, and usually provides a better angle of the Houston skyline during the descent into IAH.
Coronado and Pacific Coast
Directly after takeoff, catch the iconic Hotel del Coronado and the Silver Strand beach as the plane climbs over the ocean.
Anza-Borrego Desert
Stunning views of the badlands and unique geological formations of California's largest state park.
Imperial Valley Agriculture
Observe the perfectly geometric, bright green farming grids that emerge suddenly out of the harsh desert landscape.
Permian Basin Oil Fields
The landscape of West Texas is dotted with thousands of oil rigs and access roads, creating a unique industrial grid pattern.
Houston Skyline
Depending on the wind-dependent landing pattern at IAH, the right side often gets a panoramic view of the downtown skyscrapers.
Sam Houston National Forest
Deep green pine forests visible during the final descent, marking the transition into the humid East Texas climate.
The right side is the clear winner for the departure phase out of SAN. To get the best views of the Texas oil fields and the Houston approach, book a window seat away from the wing. Note that on afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses for the bright desert reflection.
San Diego Skyline
After the initial U-turn post-takeoff, you get a sweeping view of downtown San Diego and Balboa Park as the plane heads east.
The Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering endorheic rift lake located directly in the path, offering a stark blue contrast to the surrounding desert.
Sonoran Desert
Views of the rugged Arizona landscape, including the outskirts of Phoenix and the Tonto National Forest.
Guadalupe Mountains
On a clear day, look for the distant peaks of West Texas, including El Capitan, as you cross into the Lone Star State.
Texas Hill Country
The transition from arid desert to the lush, rolling green hills of central Texas as you approach the Gulf coastal plain.
Choose the left side if you want to see the San Diego urban sprawl and the northern edge of the Arizona mountain ranges. For morning flights, this side will be shaded, which is better for photography and reducing window glare while viewing the desert floor.
Distance: 2,093 km (1,301 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 47 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Route Type: Domestic
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