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STL → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from St Louis Lambert International Airport (St. Louis) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft typically offers a superior view of the most iconic American landmarks, including the Southern Rockies, the Grand Canyon, and the Las Vegas strip on the descent into Southern California.
The Rocky Mountains
Views of the Southern Rockies and Pikes Peak if the flight path tracks slightly north.
Lake Powell
The deep blue waters of the Colorado River winding through intricate red sandstone canyons.
Grand Canyon
The northern rim and vast expanse of the world's most famous canyon system.
Las Vegas
The iconic skyline of the Las Vegas Strip and the surrounding desert valley.
Mojave Desert
The stark beauty of the High Desert and the Joshua Tree National Park area.
Hollywood Sign
Occasional distant views of the Hollywood Hills during the descent into the LA basin.
The right side is the 'spectacle' side. For the best views of the Grand Canyon, check your flight's specific path on tracking apps, as it can vary by 50 miles. Afternoon flights may experience some glare, so bring polarized sunglasses. As the plane descends into LAX, look for the 'Boneyard' of old aircraft at Southern California Logistics Airport near Victorville.
Ozark Mountains
Rolling green hills and dense forests of the Missouri Ozarks shortly after takeoff.
New Mexico Mesas
Dramatic flat-topped mesas and high desert landscapes as you cross the Southwest.
Sedona Red Rocks
Vibrant crimson rock formations visible as the flight path nears central Arizona.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering saline lake located in the heart of the California desert.
Palm Springs
Lush green golf courses and desert resorts nestled against the San Jacinto Mountains.
LA Basin
The sprawling urban expanse of Los Angeles during the final approach to LAX.
Sit on the left to avoid the harsh afternoon sun when flying westbound. This side is particularly scenic during winter months when the New Mexico mountains are dusted with snow. On the final approach into LAX, the left side often provides a great view of the Pacific coastline if the plane loops over the ocean before landing.
Distance: 2,557 km (1,589 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 25 min
Departure: STL (38.748697, -90.370003)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
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