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SNA → ATL
Which side of the plane to sit from John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana) to Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Mojave Desert, potential views of Northern Arizona's canyons, and the best angle for the Atlanta skyline on arrival.
San Bernardino Mountains
Towering peaks visible shortly after takeoff from Orange County.
Mojave Desert
Stark, beautiful geological formations and vast arid basins across California.
Colorado River
A deep blue ribbon cutting through the red rock of the Southwest.
Mississippi River
The massive waterway marking the transition into the American South.
Atlanta Skyline
Iconic views of Downtown and Midtown during the final approach into ATL.
Choose the left side for sunset views on evening flights. On arrival, the pilot often approaches from the west, placing the Atlanta skyline perfectly in the left-hand windows. Sit forward of the wing for the clearest photos of the desert terrain without engine heat distortion.
Newport Coast
Brief but stunning views of the Pacific coastline during the initial climb.
Sonoran Desert
Expansive views of the Arizona desert floor and rugged hills.
Great Plains
The vast, geometric patchwork of agricultural fields across the Texas Panhandle.
Lake Eufaula
Large reservoir in Oklahoma with intricate, branching shorelines.
Appalachian Foothills
Rolling green hills and dense forests as you enter Georgia's airspace.
The right side is best for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. Look for the massive Salton Sea about 20 minutes into the flight. During the winter months, this side often provides a clearer view of the landscape as it follows a slightly more southerly track.
Distance: 3,081 km (1,914 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 37 min
Departure: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Arrival: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Route Type: Domestic
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