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SMF → LAS
Which side of the plane to sit from Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento) to McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring the dramatic geological transition from the lush Central Valley into the stark depths of Death Valley and a high probability of seeing the Las Vegas Strip on descent.
Search flights from SMF to LAS
Central Valley
Look down at the intricate geometric patchwork of California's agricultural heartland shortly after takeoff.
Death Valley
Identify the vast white salt flats of Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and the colorful Artist's Palette.
Spring Mountains
Marvel at the snow-capped peak of Mount Charleston which towers over the desert landscape near Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas Strip
On typical landing patterns into Runway 26, this side provides an unparalleled view of the iconic casino resorts and the Sphere.
Mojave National Preserve
Gaze across the vast desert expanse featuring Joshua Tree forests and ancient cinder cones.
The right side is the 'money side' for this route. Afternoon flights provide the best shadows for highlighting the depth of Death Valley's canyons. If landing to the west, you will pass directly south of the Strip; look out for the Luxor's pyramid and the Stratosphere tower. Window seats forward of the wing are best for unobstructed photos.
Book Hotels in Las VegasSierra Nevada Crest
Witness the rugged granite peaks and high-altitude wilderness areas of California's most iconic mountain range.
Mono Lake
Spot the distinct saline lake known for its tufa towers and unique ecosystem near the Nevada border.
Inyo National Forest
View the dramatic eastern escarpment where the mountains meet the high desert floor.
Great Basin Vistas
Observe the classic 'basin and range' topography stretching across the horizon toward the east.
North Las Vegas
See the expanding desert suburbs and the Sheep Mountain Range as the plane begins its final approach.
Sit on the left for morning flights to see the sun illuminate the eastern face of the Sierras. This side is also excellent for spotting the remote wilderness of the Inyo Mountains. However, you might miss the direct view of the Strip if the wind is coming from the west.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 639 km (397 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 4 min
Departure: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)
Arrival: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)
Route Type: Domestic
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