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SBA → DFW
Which side of the plane to sit from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (Santa Barbara) to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (Dallas-Fort Worth)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more consistently dramatic landscape, featuring the rugged Santa Ynez Mountains upon departure and potential views of the Grand Canyon and northern Arizona's high-altitude peaks during the cruise phase.
Santa Ynez Mountains
Dramatic views of the transverse mountain range immediately following departure from SBA.
Mojave Desert
High-altitude views of vast dry lake beds and volcanic formations in eastern California.
San Francisco Peaks
The snow-capped peaks near Flagstaff, Arizona, including Humphreys Peak, the state's highest point.
Painted Desert
Vibrant, multi-colored badlands stretching across northeastern Arizona.
Palo Duro Canyon
The second largest canyon in the United States, showcasing deep red clay and stone erosions.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Grand Canyon in the distance if the flight path is slightly north. For morning flights, this side will be shaded, providing better conditions for photography without glare. Look for the contrast between the red rocks of Arizona and the flat plains of the Texas Panhandle.
Channel Islands
Aerial perspective of Santa Cruz and Anacapa islands shortly after takeoff over the Pacific.
Meteor Crater
A nearly perfectly preserved impact site located near Winslow, Arizona.
Sonoran Desert
The unique landscape of southern Arizona, characterized by vast basins and saguaro-filled valleys.
Permian Basin
The extensive oil fields of West Texas, visible as a grid-like pattern across the landscape.
Fort Worth Skyline
Clear views of downtown Fort Worth and the Stockyards during the standard arrival sequence.
The right side is superior for maritime views during the first 10 minutes of flight, specifically the Channel Islands. On afternoon flights, be prepared for intense sun glare. Keep an eye out for the distinct circular shape of Meteor Crater near the Arizona-New Mexico border, which is one of the most recognizable landmarks from 35,000 feet.
Distance: 2,113 km (1,313 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 49 min
Departure: SBA (34.42620087, -119.8399963)
Arrival: DFW (32.896801, -97.038002)
Route Type: Domestic
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