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SNA → GDL
Which side of the plane to sit from John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana) to Don Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla International Airport (Guadalajara)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers spectacular coastal views, including the Southern California shoreline, the rugged beauty of the Baja California peninsula, and a sweeping view of Lake Chapala during the final approach into Guadalajara.
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California Coastline
Immediate views of Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point shortly after departing SNA.
Baja California & Gulf
The striking contrast where the brown desert mountains of Baja meet the deep blue Sea of Cortez.
Sinaloa & Nayarit Coast
The lush, tropical shoreline of mainland Mexico as the flight heads south towards Jalisco.
Lake Chapala
Mexico's largest freshwater lake, often clearly visible during the final turn toward GDL airport.
Choose a seat forward of the wing for unobstructed views of the coastline. Late afternoon flights provide a stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean. During the final approach, look south to spot the expansive waters of Lake Chapala, which is a major landmark near the airport.
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Sonoran Desert
Vast stretches of arid landscapes featuring unique geological formations and desert basins.
Sierra Madre Occidental
The dramatic, rugged peaks and deep canyons of Mexico's western mountain range.
Guadalajara Metropolitan Area
Dense urban sprawl and the architectural layout of Mexico's second-largest city during the descent.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. This side is ideal for spotting the deep shadows and textures of the Sierra Madre mountains during the late afternoon. Keep an eye out for the Salton Sea shortly after takeoff if the flight path tracks slightly inland.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for MexicoDistance: 2,049 km (1,273 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 44 min
Departure: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Arrival: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)
Route Type: International
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