The takeoff views of the Pacific and Santa Monica Mountains are more dramatic and visually distinctive than the landing approach. However, right-side seats offer better landing scenery, so left wins overall for the superior initial climb-out experience.
Flown LAX to GEG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Los Angeles to Spokane is 946 miles (1,523 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Sierra Nevada mountains (visible as a major north-south ridge system roughly 1.5 hours into flight), then continues over the Great Basin with scattered lakes and desert terrain, before reaching the Columbia Plateau region with its more subdued topography and agricultural areas approaching Spokane.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LAX
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of the Santa Monica Mountains and Pacific coastline as you climb out westbound before the northbound turn. The mountains create a dramatic backdrop against the ocean, and you'll see the LA basin sprawl beneath you.
Landing at GEG
RIGHTRight-side seats provide excellent views of the Spokane valley and the city itself during descent. You'll see the Spokane River winding through the valley and the surrounding Palouse hills rolling away to the south and west.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Spokane International (GEG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Spokane. The takeoff views of the Pacific and Santa Monica Mountains are more dramatic and visually distinctive than the landing approach. However, right-side seats offer better landing scenery, so left wins overall for the superior initial climb-out experience.
What can I see during takeoff from Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
During takeoff from Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the Santa Monica Mountains and Pacific coastline as you climb out westbound before the northbound turn. The mountains create a dramatic backdrop against the ocean, and you'll see the LA basin sprawl beneath you. Notable sights include: Pacific Ocean coastline, Santa Monica Mountains, Los Angeles basin urban grid, Malibu coastal areas.
What can I see when landing at Spokane International in Spokane?
When landing at Spokane International (GEG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats provide excellent views of the Spokane valley and the city itself during descent. You'll see the Spokane River winding through the valley and the surrounding Palouse hills rolling away to the south and west. Notable sights include: Spokane River valley, Palouse Hills, Spokane city grid, surrounding agricultural patchwork.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Spokane?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Spokane International (GEG) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 946 miles (1,523 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Los Angeles to Spokane flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Sierra Nevada mountains (visible as a major north-south ridge system roughly 1.5 hours into flight), then continues over the Great Basin with scattered lakes and desert terrain, before reaching the Columbia Plateau region with its more subdued topography and agricultural areas approaching Spokane.