Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff scenery from Las Vegas is more visually dramatic and sustained (Spring Mountains and Red Rock Canyon are striking), while the landing approach on the left is still worthwhile but briefer. The right side captures the most memorable portion of the flight.
Flown LAS to MEM? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Las Vegas to Memphis is 1,413 miles (2,274 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Arizona-New Mexico border and passes over the Colorado Plateau region. Notable features include the Grand Canyon (visible to the north of the typical flight path but sometimes visible from altitude depending on exact routing), the Kaibab Plateau, and the high desert terrain of northern Arizona and New Mexico. The Little Colorado River and Painted Desert are in the region but typically south of the standard flight corridor. As you progress eastward, you'll transition from high desert plateau to lower elevation terrain approaching the Mississippi River valley. The Ozark Mountains appear as low, forested ridges in Missouri and Arkansas during the final descent phase.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LAS
RIGHTRight-side seats offer the best views during the initial climb-out from Las Vegas. You'll see the Spring Mountains and Red Rock Canyon to the west and northwest, which are dramatic and immediately visible as you gain altitude heading eastbound.
Landing at MEM
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Memphis. You'll see the Mississippi River clearly as you approach from the west, and the river's distinctive meanders and oxbow lakes are striking features. The city itself becomes visible on both sides of the river.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Mc Carran International (LAS) to Memphis International (MEM)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Las Vegas to Memphis. Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff scenery from Las Vegas is more visually dramatic and sustained (Spring Mountains and Red Rock Canyon are striking), while the landing approach on the left is still worthwhile but briefer. The right side captures the most memorable portion of the 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. Right-side seats offer the best views during the initial climb-out from Las Vegas. You'll see the Spring Mountains and Red Rock Canyon to the west and northwest, which are dramatic and immediately visible as you gain altitude heading eastbound. Notable sights include: Spring Mountains (directly right/west), Red Rock Canyon (northwest), Las Vegas Valley floor with the Strip visible below, Lake Mead (northeast in distance).
What can I see when landing at Memphis International in Memphis?
When landing at Memphis International (MEM), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Memphis. You'll see the Mississippi River clearly as you approach from the west, and the river's distinctive meanders and oxbow lakes are striking features. The city itself becomes visible on both sides of the river. Notable sights include: Mississippi River with visible meanders and oxbow lakes, Memphis city grid and downtown skyline, Shelby Farms area (large green space east of the city), Wolf River (tributary visible near the airport).
How long is the flight from Las Vegas to Memphis?
The flight from Mc Carran International (LAS) to Memphis International (MEM) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,413 miles (2,274 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Las Vegas to Memphis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Arizona-New Mexico border and passes over the Colorado Plateau region. Notable features include the Grand Canyon (visible to the north of the typical flight path but sometimes visible from altitude depending on exact routing), the Kaibab Plateau, and the high desert terrain of northern Arizona and New Mexico. The Little Colorado River and Painted Desert are in the region but typically south of the standard flight corridor. As you progress eastward, you'll transition from high desert plateau to lower elevation terrain approaching the Mississippi River valley. The Ozark Mountains appear as low, forested ridges in Missouri and Arkansas during the final descent phase.