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TUS → SJC
Which side of the plane to sit from Tucson International Airport (Tucson) to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular sequence of dramatic landscapes, including the sprawling Phoenix metro area, the southern peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains, and a close-up view of the Diablo Range during the final approach into San Jose.
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Phoenix Metropolitan Area
Clear views of the urban sprawl of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the distinctive Camelback Mountain.
Mojave Desert
Incredible geological textures, dry lake beds, and the rugged terrain of the high desert wilderness.
Southern Sierra Nevada
Majestic views of the highest peaks in the contiguous US, including potential sightings of Mount Whitney on clear days.
San Joaquin Valley
The vast agricultural heart of California, appearing as an endless geometric patchwork of green and gold fields.
Mount Hamilton & Lick Observatory
A highlight of the descent into SJC, providing a bird's-eye view of the historic white domes of the observatory.
The right side is superior for morning flights as the sun remains behind the plane, illuminating the Sierra Nevada and the Diablo Range perfectly. Keep your camera ready during the final 15 minutes of the flight for the Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton, which usually appears quite close to the wing.
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Sonoran Desert Landscapes
Vast stretches of the Arizona desert featuring unique saguaro forests and rocky outcrops immediately following takeoff.
Salton Sea
A massive, glimmering saline rift lake that creates a striking contrast against the surrounding desert floor.
Pacific Coastline
Depending on the specific airway, you may catch distant glimpses of the California coast near Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo.
Santa Cruz Mountains
Lush, green forested ridges that define the western edge of the Silicon Valley during your descent.
Choose the left side for evening flights to witness stunning desert sunsets and the glowing Pacific horizon. Be aware that glare can be intense during the mid-afternoon. This side is also excellent for seeing the Santa Cruz mountains if the plane approaches SJC from the south.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,160 km (721 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 33 min
Departure: TUS (32.116100311279304, -110.94100189208984)
Arrival: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Route Type: Domestic
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