Loading map...

ZIH destination photo
IAH destination photo

ZIH โ†’ IAH

Our Recommendation
8.4

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.4
๐Ÿ–๏ธ

Ixtapa Coastline

Stunning aerial views of the Pacific beaches, luxury resorts, and rugged cliffs immediately after takeoff.

๐ŸŒ‹

Central Volcanoes

On very clear days, the distant snow-capped peaks of the Mexican Altiplano may be visible to the far east.

โ›ฐ๏ธ

Sierra Madre Oriental

Aerial perspective of the jagged limestone ridges and deep canyons in northeastern Mexico near Monterrey.

๐Ÿ™๏ธ

Houston Panorama

Clear views of the Downtown and Medical Center skylines if the aircraft approaches IAH from the south.

๐Ÿญ

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
๐ŸŒŠ

Guerrero Shores

The dramatic meeting of the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains and the Pacific Ocean at the start of the journey.

๐Ÿ”๏ธ

Michoacรกn Highlands

Dense forests and rugged volcanic landscapes of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt during the climb phase.

๐ŸŒต

Chihuahuan Desert

Intricate, sparse patterns of the arid landscapes near the US-Mexico border crossing.

๐Ÿ’ง

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.

Top Activities in Houston
Route Information

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

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.