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SJC → GDL
Which side of the plane to sit from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose) to Don Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla International Airport (Guadalajara)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring the initial California coastline, distant views of the Baja Peninsula, the deep blues of the Sea of Cortez, and the dramatic transition from the coastal plains into the rugged canyons of the Sierra Madre Occidental.
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Monterey Bay
Shortly after takeoff, enjoy views of the California Central Coast and the deep blue of the Pacific.
Baja Silhouette
Clear views across the Gulf of California of the rugged spine of the Baja California peninsula.
Sea of Cortez
The striking turquoise and deep navy waters of the Gulf of California meeting the desert coastline of Sonora.
Sinaloa Coastline
Aerial views of the coastal lagoons and the seaside resorts of Mazatlán as you begin the turn inland.
Barrancas of Jalisco
Dramatic deep canyons and lush green ridges as the flight ascends the plateau toward Guadalajara.
Opt for the right side on afternoon flights to witness spectacular sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. This side provides the best perspective of the Sea of Cortez and the varied topography where the mountains meet the sea. Watch for the dramatic change in terrain from coastal flats to deep highland canyons roughly 30 minutes before landing.
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Mojave Desert
Expansive views of the arid California interior including Joshua Tree and the Twentynine Palms region.
Salton Sea
California's largest lake, a shimmering saline body of water appearing as a blue oasis in the desert floor.
Pinacate Peaks
The dramatic volcanic craters and black lava flows of the Gran Desierto de Altar just south of the border.
Sierra Madre Occidental
The high-altitude pine forests and jagged peaks of Mexico's most expansive mountain range.
Guadalajara Metro Area
The sprawling urban landscape and historic cathedrals of Zapopan and Guadalajara during the final descent.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is better for spotting inland landmarks like the Imperial Valley and the massive volcanic fields of Northern Sonora. During the final approach, the left side often provides a clearer view of the central city core.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for MexicoDistance: 2,595 km (1,612 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 28 min
Departure: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Arrival: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)
Route Type: International
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