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SBA → PHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (Santa Barbara) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of California's most prominent mountain ranges, including the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains, and provides a front-row seat to the snow-capped peaks of Big Bear during winter months.
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Santa Ynez Mountains
Dramatic views of the rugged transverse range immediately after takeoff from Santa Barbara.
Mt. San Antonio
Also known as Mt. Baldy, this is the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains.
Big Bear Lake
A clear view of the mountain resort town and the high-altitude lake in the San Bernardino National Forest.
Mojave Desert
Expansive vistas of dry lake beds and the stark, beautiful geological formations of the high desert.
Hieroglyphic Mountains
Rugged desert peaks seen during the descent into the Salt River Valley.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, preventing glare. In winter and spring, these seats are superior for seeing snow on the high peaks of the Angeles and San Bernardino National Forests. Watch for the dramatic transition from the lush coastal ranges to the stark Mojave basin.
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Channel Islands
Aerial perspectives of Santa Cruz and Anacapa Islands dotting the Pacific horizon.
Malibu Coastline
Follow the curve of the California coast as the plane turns inland toward the east.
San Jacinto Peak
The massive granite face overlooking Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley.
Joshua Tree National Park
Visible as a vast expanse of unique rock piles and desert wilderness to the south.
Colorado River
The bright blue thread of water marking the border between California and Arizona near Blythe.
Phoenix Sky Island
Views of South Mountain Park and the Estrella Mountains during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the Pacific during the initial climb. It offers the best views of the Salton Sea in the distance and the intricate patterns of the Colorado River. Be aware that midday flights on this side can be quite hot and bright due to the southern sun exposure.
Book Hotels in PhoenixDistance: 730 km (454 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 13 min
Departure: SBA (34.42620087, -119.8399963)
Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Route Type: Domestic
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