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SAN → MCO
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Orlando International Airport (Orlando)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior viewing experience by avoiding the harsh southern sun glare while offering iconic views of the San Diego skyline, the Superstition Mountains, and the expansive lake districts of Central Florida.
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San Diego Skyline
Breathtaking views of downtown San Diego, Petco Park, and Balboa Park immediately after takeoff if the plane departs towards the east.
Superstition Mountains
Rugged volcanic peaks and deep canyons located just east of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Southern Rockies
Distant views of the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains in northern New Mexico during the mid-flight cruise.
Mississippi River
The massive, winding artery of the United States crossing through the lush landscapes of the South.
Lake Apopka
One of Florida's largest and most prominent lakes visible as the aircraft begins its final descent into Orlando.
Sit on the left to keep the sun behind the plane for most of the flight, ensuring better photo quality. Watch for the stark transition from the brown deserts of the West to the deep greens of the Mississippi Delta about 3 hours into the flight. For the best view of San Diego, hope for a 'Santa Ana' wind condition which forces an inland departure over the city.
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Point Loma
A stunning view of the peninsula and the Pacific Ocean if the flight departs to the west before looping back east.
Imperial Sand Dunes
A vast 'sea of sand' in southeastern California that looks like a Sahara landscape from 30,000 feet.
Guadalupe Peak
The highest point in Texas, standing out prominently against the flat Chihuahuan Desert floor.
Gulf Coastline
The emerald waters and white sand beaches of the Florida Panhandle and Alabama coast are often visible near Pensacola.
Walt Disney World
Depending on the wind-dependent arrival pattern at MCO, you may see Spaceship Earth and the Magic Kingdom to the southwest.
The right side is prone to intense heat and light from the sun on this southern route; keep your window shade partially closed to stay cool. This side is ideal for spotting the Gulf of Mexico as you cross over from the mainland into the Florida peninsula. During the winter months, look for the 'white sands' of the New Mexico desert which can look like snow from above.
Book Hotels in OrlandoDistance: 3,452 km (2,145 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 4 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)
Route Type: Domestic
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