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SAP → MEX
Which side of the plane to sit from Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport (San Pedro Sula) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled view of Mexico's most iconic volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, during the final descent, along with the rugged beauty of the Chiapas highlands.
Sierra de Omoa
Stunning views of the rugged mountain ridges of Northwest Honduras immediately after takeoff from SAP.
Chiapas Cloud Forest
Expansive vistas of the lush, mountainous terrain and dense forests of southern Mexico's Chiapas region.
Sumidero Canyon Area
The deep valleys and winding Grijalva River system as the flight enters Mexican airspace.
Popocatépetl
A close-up view of the active 'Smoking Mountain' volcano, often seen with a plume of steam, on the descent into MEX.
Iztaccíhuatl
The 'Sleeping Woman' volcano, featuring its iconic four peaks that resemble a silhouette of a woman.
Sit on the left for flights arriving in the early morning to have the sun behind you for perfect photos of the volcanoes. The approach into Mexico City is famous for these volcanic views, so keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing. In the rainy season (June-Oct), morning flights offer the best chance for clear mountain views before clouds build up.
Gulf of Honduras
The turquoise waters and coastal inlets of the Caribbean Sea shortly after departing San Pedro Sula.
Usumacinta Delta
The vast wetlands and winding river basins where the Usumacinta and Grijalva rivers converge.
Bay of Campeche
Panoramic views of the southern curve of the Gulf of Mexico and the coastal oil-producing regions.
Port of Veracruz
The historic and busy shipping port of Veracruz, one of Mexico's most important maritime hubs.
Pico de Orizaba
Mexico's highest peak (Citlaltépetl), its snow-capped cone often visible rising above the clouds.
The right side is spectacular for late afternoon flights, offering views of the sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico. To see Pico de Orizaba, look out about 30 minutes before arrival; it is a massive landmark that stands out distinctly. This side also offers a wider view of the sprawling Mexico City metropolitan area if the flight approaches from the north.
Distance: 1,262 km (784 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 41 min
Departure: SAP (15.4526, -87.923599)
Arrival: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Route Type: International
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