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SJC → LAS
Which side of the plane to sit from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose) to McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer rugged beauty, the Right Side is generally preferred for its superior view of the Las Vegas Strip and Red Rock Canyon during the final approach into Harry Reid International Airport.
Central Valley Grids
The vast, geometric agricultural patchwork of California's heartland near Fresno and Visalia.
Tehachapi Wind Farm
One of the largest wind energy clusters in the world, visible as the plane crosses into the Mojave.
Red Rock Canyon
Stunning crimson-colored sandstone cliffs and rock formations located just west of the Las Vegas Valley.
The Las Vegas Strip
Direct views of the iconic casino skyline including the Strat, Sphere, and mega-resorts during the final descent.
The right side is iconic for this route. Sit behind the wing to ensure your view of the Las Vegas Strip isn't obstructed. On morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing perfectly front-lit views of the Mojave Desert's unique geology.
Lick Observatory
Located atop Mount Hamilton in the Diablo Range, visible shortly after departing San Jose.
Sierra Nevada Peaks
Panoramic views of the southern Sierra Nevada mountains, often snow-capped during winter and spring.
Death Valley Vista
To the north, you can see the expansive, arid basins leading toward the hottest place on Earth.
Mount Charleston
The highest peak in the Spring Mountains, serving as a landmark for the start of the Las Vegas descent.
Choose the left side if you enjoy high-altitude mountain scenery. For the best lighting, fly in the late afternoon when the sun is to the south, illuminating the Sierra Nevada and the Spring Mountains to the north.
Distance: 620 km (385 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 2 min
Departure: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Arrival: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)
Route Type: Domestic
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