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SJD destination photo
IAH destination photo

SJDIAH

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a comprehensive view of the Baja coastline, the crossing of the international border at the Rio Grande, and the iconic industrial and coastal landscapes of the Texas Gulf Coast during the descent into Houston.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏖️

Baja East Cape

Views of the less-developed eastern coastline of the Baja California Sur peninsula and its secluded beaches.

⛰️

Sierra Madre Oriental

Distinctive limestone ridges and dramatic vertical relief visible as the flight path passes near Monterrey.

🌊

The Rio Grande

The winding silver ribbon of the river that defines the international border between the U.S. and Mexico.

⚓

Houston Ship Channel

A massive industrial landscape of refineries and tankers visible during the final approach into IAH.

🎡

Galveston Bay

Depending on the wind-directed landing pattern, views of the Texas coastline and the vast waters of the bay.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be positioned on the opposite side of the aircraft. For the most scenic arrival, look out the window during the final 15 minutes of the flight; if the plane approaches from the south, you will get a spectacular view of the Houston metro area and the Gulf Coast industrial complex.

Left Side Highlights
7.3
🌵

San Jose del Cabo

Panoramic views of the desert landscape meeting the coastline immediately after takeoff from SJD.

🌊

Sea of Cortez

A vast expanse of turquoise and deep blue water as the aircraft leaves the Baja peninsula for mainland Mexico.

⛰️

Sierra Madre Occidental

Rugged, jagged mountain peaks and deep canyons visible as you cross over the mainland Mexican state of Sinaloa.

🏜️

Chihuahuan Desert

Extensive views of the high-altitude desert plateaus and isolated mountain ranges in the states of Chihuahua and Coahuila.

🏘️

North Houston Suburbs

The green, forested residential areas and winding bayous characteristic of the Montgomery County area north of the airport.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the southern sun. This side provides the best view of the Sierra Madre Occidental's dramatic mountain relief. Keep your camera ready about 20-30 minutes after takeoff to capture the contrast between the deep blue Sea of Cortez and the arid Baja landscape.

Top Activities in Houston
Route Information

Distance: 1,617 km (1,005 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 9 min

Departure: SJD (23.15180015563965, -109.72100067138672)

Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Route Type: International

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