The right side delivers the dramatic San Gabriel Mountains on departure and maintains views of the Mojave Desert transition and Mojave River basin during cruise. While the left side has a slight edge on landing, the takeoff scenery from the right is the most visually memorable part of this short flight.
Flight Path
The flight crosses the eastern Mojave Desert, passing over the Cajon Pass area, then the high desert around Victorville and Barstow before transitioning south over the Mojave Desert floor. The Colorado River valley and Parker area may be visible to the south. The Harquahala Mountains and White Tank Mountains appear as the aircraft descends toward Phoenix.
Phase by phase
Takeoff from
Landing at
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
Will your flight be in sunlight?
See exactly which side of the plane gets sun and shade at your departure time.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Burbank to Phoenix. The right side delivers the dramatic San Gabriel Mountains on departure and maintains views of the Mojave Desert transition and Mojave River basin during cruise. While the left side has a slight edge on landing, the takeoff scenery from the right is the most visually memorable part of this short flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Burbank Glendale Pasadena in Burbank?
During takeoff from Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR), sit on the Right side for the best views. BUR typically departs east on runway 08, so the right side faces north toward the San Gabriel Mountains including Mount Wilson and the front range above Pasadena. The left side looks south over the flat San Fernando Valley floor with less dramatic scenery. Notable sights include: San Gabriel Mountains front range, Mount Wilson (5,710 ft) with its visible antenna farm, Verdugo Mountains, Pasadena and Altadena neighborhoods below.
What can I see when landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
When landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Left side for the best views. PHX typically lands westbound on runway 26, approaching from the east over the Valley of the Sun. The left side faces south toward South Mountain Park and the broad Phoenix metro grid, giving a sweeping view of the city layout. The right side looks north toward the McDowell Mountains and Scottsdale but is less dramatic on final approach. Notable sights include: South Mountain Park (the large dark ridge south of Phoenix), the downtown Phoenix skyline, Salt River bed and its dry braided channels, Tempe Town Lake.
How long is the flight from Burbank to Phoenix?
The flight from Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) takes Approximately 55 to 65 minutes.
What does the Burbank to Phoenix flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the eastern Mojave Desert, passing over the Cajon Pass area, then the high desert around Victorville and Barstow before transitioning south over the Mojave Desert floor. The Colorado River valley and Parker area may be visible to the south. The Harquahala Mountains and White Tank Mountains appear as the aircraft descends toward Phoenix.