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SNA → LAS
Which side of the plane to sit from John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana) to McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most iconic arrival experience, featuring the San Gabriel Mountains and the best chance for a full view of the Las Vegas Strip during the final descent.
Newport Beach
Aerial views of the Balboa Peninsula and the Pacific coastline immediately following the steep SNA noise-abatement takeoff.
Mt. San Antonio (Mt. Baldy)
The highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains, often capped with snow during the winter and spring months.
Victorville Boneyard
Spot the Southern California Logistics Airport where hundreds of retired commercial aircraft are parked in the dry desert air.
Red Rock Canyon
Stunning red sandstone cliffs and geological formations located just west of the Las Vegas valley.
The Las Vegas Strip
Depending on the wind and approach pattern, this side typically offers a spectacular view of the mega-resorts and the Sphere.
Book an evening flight to see the Las Vegas Strip neon lights in their full glory. If landing on Runway 26L or 26R, the left side provides an unobstructed view of the entire resort corridor from north to south. Keep your camera ready shortly after the pilot announces the descent into the Vegas basin.
Santiago Peak
The prominent summit of the Santa Ana Mountains, recognizable by its cluster of communication towers.
Lake Arrowhead
A glimpse of the lush pine forests and alpine lakes within the San Bernardino National Forest.
Ivanpah Solar Facility
Three massive glowing towers surrounded by thousands of mirrors that track the sun, located near the California-Nevada border.
Seven Magic Mountains
Look for the tiny, neon-colored rock totems standing in the desert floor just south of Las Vegas.
Primm Valley
The state line casinos and the 'Desperado' roller coaster marking your official entry into Nevada.
The right side is excellent for desert geeks; look for the Ivanpah Solar Plant, which is so bright it can be seen from miles away. During mid-day flights, the desert colors are most vibrant on this side. If the aircraft loops around the city for a southern approach, you may see the Hoover Dam in the far distance to the east.
Distance: 364 km (226 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 36 min
Departure: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Arrival: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)
Route Type: Domestic
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