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YUM destination photo
PHX destination photo

YUMPHX

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Sierra Estrella range and the most recognizable landmarks of the Phoenix Valley, including South Mountain and the downtown skyline during the typical eastern approach into Sky Harbor.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌵

Sonoran Desert Monument

Expansive views of protected saguaro forests and pristine desert floor south of Interstate 8.

⛰️

Sierra Estrella Mountains

A dramatic, craggy mountain range that provides a stunning backdrop during the descent into the Phoenix basin.

🏛️

Gila River Community

Traditional tribal lands featuring unique agricultural patterns and the winding path of the Gila River.

🚵

South Mountain Park

Aerial views of one of the world's largest city parks, featuring rugged trails and the iconic antenna farm.

🏟️

Downtown Phoenix

A clear view of the city center, including Chase Field and the high-rise district, just before touchdown.

The right side is ideal for capturing the iconic Phoenix landscape. During the descent, you will fly closely alongside the Sierra Estrella and South Mountain ranges. Afternoon flights on this side offer beautiful 'golden hour' lighting on the mountain faces, though you should be prepared for direct sunlight during the first half of the journey.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏜️

Kofa Wildlife Refuge

High-altitude views of the jagged peaks and desert wilderness of the Kofa Mountains to the north.

🏔️

Castle Dome Peak

A prominent volcanic plug that stands out against the flat desert floor shortly after takeoff from Yuma.

🌾

Wellton-Mohawk Valley

The contrasting green agricultural strips of the Gila River irrigation projects against the arid landscape.

🏗️

Palo Verde Generating Station

The massive cooling towers of the United States' largest nuclear power plant are often visible to the north.

🏙️

North Valley Peaks

Distant views of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak as the plane aligns for the final approach.

Sit on the left if you want to see the remote wilderness of the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge. For morning flights, this side avoids the direct southern sun, providing better conditions for photography of the high desert terrain. Keep an eye out for the white domes of the Palo Verde power plant midway through the flight.

Top Activities in Phoenix
Route Information

Distance: 257 km (160 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 26 min

Departure: YUM (32.65660095, -114.6060028)

Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)

Route Type: Domestic

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