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SBA → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (Santa Barbara) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the rugged Santa Ynez Mountains to the sprawling urban density of the Los Angeles basin, providing a continuous panoramic of the California coastline.
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Santa Ynez Mountains
The flight departs with a stunning view of these steep coastal mountains framing Santa Barbara.
Oxnard Plain
Vibrant agricultural fields and the coastal cities of Ventura and Oxnard passing beneath.
Santa Monica Mountains
The rugged ridge that separates the San Fernando Valley from the Pacific coastline.
Century City & DTLA
As the plane turns for its final approach, the high-rises of West LA and Downtown are visible.
The Getty Center
The distinct white travertine architecture of the museum perched on a hill above the 405 freeway.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun over the ocean. This side is best for identifying famous land-based landmarks like the Hollywood Sign (in the distance) and the dense grid of the LA basin during the descent. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the best mountain shots.
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Pacific Ocean Coastline
A constant view of the blue Pacific and the white surf breaking along the Gold Coast.
Channel Islands
On clear days, Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands are visible as rugged silhouettes on the horizon.
Malibu Beaches
Bird's eye view of Point Dume, Zuma Beach, and the luxury estates lining the Malibu shore.
Port of Hueneme
The only deep-water port between Los Angeles and San Francisco, often filled with cargo ships.
Santa Monica Bay
The final sweeping turn over the water before touching down at LAX over Dockweiler Beach.
The right side is spectacular during sunset flights as the sun dips into the Pacific. Look for the distinct 'V' shape of the Channel Islands to the west. During the final approach, you will fly directly over the coastline, offering a unique perspective of the beaches just seconds before landing.
Book Hotels in Los AngelesDistance: 142 km (88 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 14 min
Departure: SBA (34.42620087, -119.8399963)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
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