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TIJ → MTY
Which side of the plane to sit from General Abelardo L. Rodríguez International Airport (Tijuana) to General Mariano Escobedo International Airport (Monterrey)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring the dramatic crossing of the Gulf of California, the rugged peaks of the Sierra Madre Occidental, and a spectacular arrival into Monterrey showcasing the iconic Cerro de la Silla.
Sea of Cortez
The deep blue waters of the Gulf of California provide a stunning contrast against the arid Sonoran coastline.
Sierra Madre Occidental
A vast mountain range featuring deep canyons and high-altitude plateaus that dominate the central part of the trip.
Bolsón de Mapimí
An endorheic basin in the Chihuahuan Desert known for its mysterious 'Zone of Silence'.
Huasteca Canyon
Massive limestone walls and jagged ridges visible during the descent into the Monterrey valley.
Cerro de la Silla
Monterrey's most famous landmark, a saddle-shaped mountain, is prominently visible as the aircraft maneuvers for landing.
Choose a window seat on the right for the most iconic views of the Mexican interior. During the descent into MTY, the pilots often fly past the Sierra Madre Oriental; the sharp limestone peaks are best viewed in the late afternoon sun. Keep your camera ready as the plane enters the Monterrey metropolitan area for views of the modern skyline against the mountains.
International Border
Visible immediately after takeoff, the stark line separating Tijuana and San Diego stretches across the landscape.
Gran Desierto de Altar
Massive sand dune fields in northern Sonora, part of one of the most biodiverse deserts in the world.
Pinacate Peaks
Dark volcanic fields and massive craters visible near the northern edge of the flight path.
Juárez/El Paso Horizon
On clear days, the distant sprawl of the northern border cities can be spotted on the horizon.
Coahuila Industrial Hubs
The steel-producing regions around Monclova create distinct industrial patterns in the desert terrain.
To avoid sun glare during eastbound morning flights, the left side is preferable. Keep your eyes peeled for the Pinacate volcanic shield shortly after crossing the Colorado River delta area. Look for the distinct lack of vegetation in the Altar Desert dunes.
Distance: 1,799 km (1,118 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min
Departure: TIJ (32.541099548339844, -116.97000122070312)
Arrival: MTY (25.7784996033, -100.107002258)
Route Type: Domestic
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