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SJO โ LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior view of the volcanic spine of Central America, the massive Lake Nicaragua, and the rugged mountain ranges of mainland Mexico before crossing the vibrant Sea of Cortez.
Volcanic Peaks
Aerial views of the Cordillera Central, including the smoking craters of Poรกs and the iconic cone of Arenal.
Lake Nicaragua
The massive expanse of Lago Cocibolca, featuring the twin volcanic peaks of Ometepe Island rising from the water.
Sierra Madre Occidental
The deeply carved canyons and high peaks of Mexico's western mountain range, offering rugged and dramatic textures.
Sonoran Desert
The transition from tropical forests to the arid, colorful textures of the Mexican and American desert landscapes.
Sea of Cortez
The striking contrast between the deep blue Gulf of California and the orange desert sands of the Baja interior.
Inland Empire
Views of the Salton Sea and the sprawling suburban grid of the Greater Los Angeles area during the final descent.
Sit on the right for the best morning light on the Central American volcanoes. Keep your window shade up during the mid-flight over Mexico to see the dramatic Sierra Madre. Watch for the Salton Sea about 30 to 40 minutes before landing, as it signals the start of the final approach into the LA basin.
Nicoya Peninsula
Early views of the lush green coastline and turquoise waters of Costa Rica's Pacific edge shortly after takeoff.
Pacific Ocean Expanse
Endless blue horizons with occasional views of cargo ships and the deep blue of the Tehuantepec trench area.
Pacific Sunset
On afternoon departures, this side offers front-row seats to spectacular sunsets over the open ocean horizon.
Baja Peninsula
The rugged western coastline of Baja California, known for its dramatic cliffs and remote Pacific beaches.
Southern California Coast
On final approach, view the beaches of Orange County and the Palos Verdes Peninsula before turning into LAX.
Choose this side for late afternoon or evening flights to experience a sunset over the Pacific. On clear days, you may spot the Channel Islands shortly before landing. Use a polarizing filter on your camera to cut through the ocean haze during the midday sun.
Distance: 4,382 km (2,723 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 9 min
Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: International
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