While takeoff favors the left for MacDonnell Ranges views, the landing approach on the right provides more dramatic urban scenery and recognizable landmarks (Phoenix skyline, Camelback Mountain). The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
Flown ASP to PHX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Alice Springs to Phoenix is 8,449 miles (13,597 km), a flight of about 13 hours 30 minutes.
This transpacific routing crosses the Australian interior (red desert, sparse settlements), then the Pacific Ocean for roughly 8-10 hours with no visible landmarks. Upon approaching North America, the flight passes over the southwestern United States, potentially offering views of the Colorado River drainage, Lake Mead (if routed north), or the Mojave Desert before descending into Phoenix. Most of the flight occurs over open ocean with no scenic window value.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ASP
LEFTLeft side offers views of the MacDonnell Ranges immediately west and northwest of Alice Springs, plus the town grid itself. Right side faces open desert with minimal visual interest during climb-out.
Landing at PHX
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Phoenix metropolitan area, including downtown Phoenix and the Salt River valley during descent. Left side faces the open Sonoran Desert with fewer urban landmarks.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Alice Springs (ASP) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Alice Springs to Phoenix. While takeoff favors the left for MacDonnell Ranges views, the landing approach on the right provides more dramatic urban scenery and recognizable landmarks (Phoenix skyline, Camelback Mountain). The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Alice Springs in Alice Springs?
During takeoff from Alice Springs (ASP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the MacDonnell Ranges immediately west and northwest of Alice Springs, plus the town grid itself. Right side faces open desert with minimal visual interest during climb-out. Notable sights include: MacDonnell Ranges (West and East), Alice Springs town center, Heavitree Gap.
What can I see when landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
When landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Phoenix metropolitan area, including downtown Phoenix and the Salt River valley during descent. Left side faces the open Sonoran Desert with fewer urban landmarks. Notable sights include: Phoenix downtown skyline, Salt River, South Mountain Park, Camelback Mountain.
How long is the flight from Alice Springs to Phoenix?
The flight from Alice Springs (ASP) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) takes about 13 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 8,449 miles (13,597 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Alice Springs to Phoenix flight path pass over?
This transpacific routing crosses the Australian interior (red desert, sparse settlements), then the Pacific Ocean for roughly 8-10 hours with no visible landmarks. Upon approaching North America, the flight passes over the southwestern United States, potentially offering views of the Colorado River drainage, Lake Mead (if routed north), or the Mojave Desert before descending into Phoenix. Most of the flight occurs over open ocean with no scenic window value.