The right side wins overall because the Spring Mountains departure view is genuinely dramatic and distinctive, and during the cruise portion heading west the right side also picks up views of the Mojave Desert terrain and the San Bernardino Mountains on the horizon. The landing left-side advantage is real but brief. Right side delivers more across the full flight.
Flight Path
The flight crosses the eastern Mojave Desert, passing over or near Barstow and the Mojave Desert floor. The San Bernardino Mountains (San Gorgonio Peak at 11,503 ft) are visible to the south as you cross into Southern California. The route then descends over the Inland Empire suburban sprawl before reaching the LA Basin.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Mc Carran International (LAS) to Long Beach (LGB)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Las Vegas to Long Beach. The right side wins overall because the Spring Mountains departure view is genuinely dramatic and distinctive, and during the cruise portion heading west the right side also picks up views of the Mojave Desert terrain and the San Bernardino Mountains on the horizon. The landing left-side advantage is real but brief. Right side delivers more across the full flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Mc Carran International in Las Vegas?
During takeoff from Mc Carran International (LAS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Las Vegas typically departs south on runway 26L/R or north on 19L/R. Heading west-southwest toward LGB, the right side gives you the Las Vegas Strip receding behind you and the Spring Mountains (Charleston Peak at 11,918 ft) dominating the view as you climb out. Left side gets the flat Mojave desert floor with little of interest. Notable sights include: Las Vegas Strip (receding), Spring Mountains/Charleston Peak, Red Rock Canyon escarpment, Mojave Desert basin floor.
What can I see when landing at Long Beach in Long Beach?
When landing at Long Beach (LGB), sit on the Left side for the best views. LGB typically lands on runway 30 (heading west-northwest) or runway 12 (heading southeast). On approach from the east, the left side gives you a clear view of the Los Angeles Basin, the Long Beach harbor and port complex, and the Pacific Ocean opening up ahead. Right side faces inland toward the San Gabriel Mountains. Notable sights include: Port of Long Beach/Los Angeles (massive container terminal), Los Angeles Basin urban grid, Pacific Ocean coastline, Palos Verdes Peninsula.
How long is the flight from Las Vegas to Long Beach?
The flight from Mc Carran International (LAS) to Long Beach (LGB) takes Approximately 55-70 minutes.
What does the Las Vegas to Long Beach flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the eastern Mojave Desert, passing over or near Barstow and the Mojave Desert floor. The San Bernardino Mountains (San Gorgonio Peak at 11,503 ft) are visible to the south as you cross into Southern California. The route then descends over the Inland Empire suburban sprawl before reaching the LA Basin.