The right side wins overall because the takeoff view of the Las Vegas Strip and Spring Mountains is more visually striking than anything on the left at that stage, and during cruise the right side tracks closer to the Hoover Dam area and Lake Mead briefly before the route straightens southeast. The landing advantage shifts slightly left, but the takeoff spectacle tips the balance to the right seat.
Flown LAS to PHX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Las Vegas to Phoenix is 256 miles (411 km), a flight of about 1 hour.
The route crosses the Mojave Desert transitioning into the Sonoran Desert, passing over the Hualapai Valley and the Aquarius Mountains of western Arizona. The Wickenburg area and Hassayampa River valley are visible mid-route. Terrain is largely flat to rolling desert scrub with isolated mountain ranges including the Harquahala Mountains visible to the south.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from LAS
RIGHTDeparting south on runway 26L/26R or heading southeast toward PHX, the right side gives you a clear look at the Las Vegas Strip and downtown before the aircraft banks. You also get the Spring Mountains and Red Rock Canyon escarpment to the west-southwest as the city falls away.
Landing at PHX
LEFTPHX typically lands on runways 26 or 25L/25R from the east, meaning the aircraft approaches from the east heading west. The left side faces south and gives you Camelback Mountain, South Mountain Park, and the dense Phoenix metro grid. The right side faces north toward Scottsdale and the McDowell Mountains but is less dramatic.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Mc Carran International (LAS) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Las Vegas to Phoenix. The right side wins overall because the takeoff view of the Las Vegas Strip and Spring Mountains is more visually striking than anything on the left at that stage, and during cruise the right side tracks closer to the Hoover Dam area and Lake Mead briefly before the route straightens southeast. The landing advantage shifts slightly left, but the takeoff spectacle tips the balance to the right seat.
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. Departing south on runway 26L/26R or heading southeast toward PHX, the right side gives you a clear look at the Las Vegas Strip and downtown before the aircraft banks. You also get the Spring Mountains and Red Rock Canyon escarpment to the west-southwest as the city falls away. Notable sights include: Las Vegas Strip and downtown core, Spring Mountains (Charleston Peak at 11,918 ft), Red Rock Canyon escarpment, Frenchman Mountain to the east.
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 on runways 26 or 25L/25R from the east, meaning the aircraft approaches from the east heading west. The left side faces south and gives you Camelback Mountain, South Mountain Park, and the dense Phoenix metro grid. The right side faces north toward Scottsdale and the McDowell Mountains but is less dramatic. Notable sights include: Camelback Mountain, South Mountain Park and preserve, Phoenix downtown skyline, Salt River bed and Tempe Town Lake.
How long is the flight from Las Vegas to Phoenix?
The flight from Mc Carran International (LAS) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) takes about 1 hour. The shortest flight path between them is 256 miles (411 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Las Vegas to Phoenix flight path pass over?
The route crosses the Mojave Desert transitioning into the Sonoran Desert, passing over the Hualapai Valley and the Aquarius Mountains of western Arizona. The Wickenburg area and Hassayampa River valley are visible mid-route. Terrain is largely flat to rolling desert scrub with isolated mountain ranges including the Harquahala Mountains visible to the south.