Loading map...
SAN → TUS
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Tucson International Airport (Tucson)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior perspective of the Salton Sea's expanse, the striking golden Imperial Sand Dunes, and the fascinating geometric patterns of the US-Mexico border landscape.
Coronado Bridge
Iconic views of the bridge, San Diego Bay, and the naval shipyards during the departure sequence.
Salton Sea
The massive, reflective surface of California's largest lake sitting over 200 feet below sea level.
Imperial Sand Dunes
Massive golden dunes stretching toward the Mexican border, often used as film locations.
Imperial Valley
The intense green grid of irrigated farmland that creates a sharp geometric contrast with the surrounding desert.
Saguaro National Park
Dense forests of giant saguaro cacti visible on the foothills as the plane descends into the Tucson basin.
Right side seats are ideal for morning flights when the sun illuminates the desert floor and dunes. Look for the very distinct straight line of the international border wall stretching across the landscape. In winter months, look further south for snow-capped peaks in the high mountains of Northern Mexico.
San Diego Skyline
Spectacular view of downtown skyscrapers and Balboa Park immediately after the initial eastward turn.
Laguna Mountains
Transition from coastal hills to high-altitude pine forests before dropping sharply into the desert floor.
Anza-Borrego Badlands
Intricate erosion patterns and colorful desert canyons visible from high altitude.
Colorado River
A stark blue-green contrast against the arid desert floor as you cross from California into Arizona.
Picacho Peak
A distinct volcanic plug that serves as a landmark for travelers, located northwest of Tucson.
Choose the left side for afternoon departures to minimize direct sun glare while looking north. Keep an eye out for the white domes of the Palomar Observatory on the northern horizon during the initial climb. Upon final approach to TUS, this side often provides the best view of the rugged Santa Catalina Mountains.
Distance: 590 km (367 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 59 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: TUS (32.116100311279304, -110.94100189208984)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.