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ZIH โ IAH
Which side of the plane to sit from Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International Airport (Zihuatanejo) to George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this route as it offers the iconic departure view of the crescent-shaped Zihuatanejo Bay and generally provides the best perspective of the Houston skyline and ship channel during the descent into IAH.
Ixtapa Coastline
Stunning aerial views of the Pacific beaches, luxury resorts, and rugged cliffs immediately after takeoff.
Central Volcanoes
On very clear days, the distant snow-capped peaks of the Mexican Altiplano may be visible to the far east.
Sierra Madre Oriental
Aerial perspective of the jagged limestone ridges and deep canyons in northeastern Mexico near Monterrey.
Houston Panorama
Clear views of the Downtown and Medical Center skylines if the aircraft approaches IAH from the south.
Texas Industrial Belt
Intricate industrial landscapes and the massive Port of Houston during the final descent.
Sit on the right for the best chance to see the Zihuatanejo bay during the initial bank. As you approach Houston, the right side typically offers a better view of the city's sprawling metropolitan area and the Gulf of Mexico's horizon.
Guerrero Shores
The dramatic meeting of the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains and the Pacific Ocean at the start of the journey.
Michoacรกn Highlands
Dense forests and rugged volcanic landscapes of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt during the climb phase.
Chihuahuan Desert
Intricate, sparse patterns of the arid landscapes near the US-Mexico border crossing.
Rio Grande Border
The serpentine river marking the international boundary between the state of Coahuila and Texas.
The left side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness spectacular sunsets over the Mexican interior. Use a flight tracker to spot the exact moment you cross the Rio Grande, as the landscape shifts from rugged Mexican plateaus to flatter Texas ranch lands.
Distance: 1,510 km (938 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 1 min
Departure: ZIH (17.601600647, -101.460998535)
Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Route Type: International
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