While the takeoff offers coastal views, the landing approach into Monterrey provides more dramatic and sustained scenery—the Sierra Madre Oriental and Cerro de la Silla are iconic landmarks that dominate the descent and make for more memorable window views.
Flown LAX to MTY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Los Angeles to Monterrey is 1,230 miles (1,980 km), a flight of about 3 hours 5 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Mexico at altitude, passing over the Mexican plateau and approaching the Sierra Madre Oriental from the west. Notable features include the Laguna Madre (coastal lagoon system) visible to the east as the aircraft descends, and the transition from high desert terrain to the mountainous terrain surrounding Monterrey.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LAX
LEFTLeft seats offer views of the Santa Monica Mountains and Pacific coastline as the aircraft climbs southeastward out of LAX. You'll see the coastal curve and urban sprawl of greater Los Angeles receding beneath you.
Landing at MTY
RIGHTRight seats provide excellent views during descent into Monterrey. You'll see the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains dominating the approach, with the city nestled in the valley below. The terrain is dramatic and clearly visible from 15,000 feet onward.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to General Mariano Escobedo International (MTY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Monterrey. While the takeoff offers coastal views, the landing approach into Monterrey provides more dramatic and sustained scenery—the Sierra Madre Oriental and Cerro de la Silla are iconic landmarks that dominate the descent and make for more memorable window views.
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 seats offer views of the Santa Monica Mountains and Pacific coastline as the aircraft climbs southeastward out of LAX. You'll see the coastal curve and urban sprawl of greater Los Angeles receding beneath you. Notable sights include: Santa Monica Mountains, Pacific Ocean coastline, Los Angeles urban grid, Catalina Island (distant).
What can I see when landing at General Mariano Escobedo International in Monterrey?
When landing at General Mariano Escobedo International (MTY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right seats provide excellent views during descent into Monterrey. You'll see the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains dominating the approach, with the city nestled in the valley below. The terrain is dramatic and clearly visible from 15,000 feet onward. Notable sights include: Sierra Madre Oriental mountains, Barrio Antiguo (historic city center), Macroplaza urban district, Cerro de la Silla (iconic twin-peaked mountain).
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Monterrey?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to General Mariano Escobedo International (MTY) takes about 3 hours 5 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,230 miles (1,980 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Los Angeles to Monterrey flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Mexico at altitude, passing over the Mexican plateau and approaching the Sierra Madre Oriental from the west. Notable features include the Laguna Madre (coastal lagoon system) visible to the east as the aircraft descends, and the transition from high desert terrain to the mountainous terrain surrounding Monterrey.