About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Los Angeles International (LAX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Kirtland A.f.b. to Los Angeles. Right side wins overall because the LAX approach over the LA Basin is one of the most visually rich arrivals in the US, and the right side also catches the Mojave Desert transition and glimpses of the San Gabriel Mountains during cruise. The ABQ departure views on the left are excellent but shorter-lived.
What can I see during takeoff from Albuquerque International Sunport in Kirtland A.f.b.?
During takeoff from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), sit on the Left side for the best views. ABQ typically departs runway 26 heading west, then turns northwest toward LAX. The left (south) side gives you a clear view of the Sandia Mountains rising dramatically to over 10,000 feet just east of the city, and the Rio Grande valley cutting through the high desert below. You also get a good look at the sprawl of Albuquerque itself as you climb out. Notable sights include: Sandia Mountains (east of ABQ, visible as a sharp granite escarpment), Rio Grande valley and bosque, Albuquerque city grid, Kirtland AFB and Manzano Mountains to the south.
What can I see when landing at Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
When landing at Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Right side for the best views. LAX typically lands on runways 24L/24R approaching from the east over the LA Basin. The right (north) side gives you the full panorama of the LA Basin, downtown Los Angeles skyline, the Santa Monica Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean coming into view just before touchdown. Left side faces south toward the South Bay and is less dramatic. Notable sights include: Downtown Los Angeles skyline, Santa Monica Mountains and Hollywood Hills, Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Bay, LAX runways and El Segundo coastline.
How long is the flight from Kirtland A.f.b. to Los Angeles?
The flight from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Los Angeles International (LAX) takes Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours.
What does the Kirtland A.f.b. to Los Angeles flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the high desert of western New Mexico and eastern Arizona, passing near the White Mountains of Arizona and the Mogollon Rim. Over central Arizona you may see the broad flat expanse of the Sonoran Desert. Approaching California, the route crosses the Mojave Desert with its dry lake beds visible below, then descends over the San Gabriel Mountains and into the LA Basin.