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SLC → CUN
Which side of the plane to sit from Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City) to Cancún International Airport (Cancun)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is superior for its unparalleled views of the Wasatch Range during departure and the iconic turquoise waters of Isla Mujeres and the Caribbean coastline upon the final approach into Cancun.
Wasatch Mountains
Immediate views of the rugged, snow-capped peaks bordering Salt Lake City right after takeoff.
Texas Panhandle
A vast geometric tapestry of agricultural fields and plains as you cross toward the Gulf.
Gulf of Mexico
An expansive transition from the muddy coastal waters of the US to the deep indigo of the open sea.
Isla Mujeres
Stunning aerial perspectives of the island's white sands and vibrant coral reefs during the descent.
Sit on the left for morning flights to minimize harsh glare during the first half of the trip. This side offers the best vantage point for the classic 'Caribbean Blue' photo as the plane banks toward the Cancun runway. Look out for the transition from the arid Texas landscape to the humid Gulf coast.
Oquirrh Mountains
Views of the western mountain range and the massive Bingham Canyon Mine shortly after departure.
Chihuahuan Desert
Dramatic views of the Rio Grande and the arid, jagged landscapes of Southern New Mexico and West Texas.
Yucatan Jungle
A sea of deep green tropical forest that stretches to the horizon as you cross the Mexican coastline.
Cancun Hotel Zone
Views of the '7' shaped island of resorts and the Nichupté Lagoon just before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. It provides a better perspective of the dense Yucatan jungle canopy. If the flight approaches from the north, you will have a clear view of the sprawling hotel zone and the lagoon system.
Distance: 3,227 km (2,005 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 48 min
Departure: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Arrival: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Route Type: International
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