Los Angeles to Pico is 4,810 miles (7,740 km), a flight of about 11 hours.
While the takeoff offers excellent LA basin views, the landing approach into Pico provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery—the volcanic peak and Atlantic setting are more striking than typical urban sprawl. Right-side seats capture the approach's best features.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 8-9 hours with no significant landmarks visible—only open ocean. Departing LAX, the aircraft climbs over Southern California's mountains and coast, then heads northeast over the continental US before turning east across the Atlantic. The Azores archipelago becomes visible approximately 1-2 hours before landing at Pico, with other islands in the chain (Faial, São Jorge) visible during the final descent phase. No major continental landmasses are crossed after leaving North America until approaching the Azores.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LAX
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the Los Angeles basin spreading eastward during the typical eastbound initial climb. The mountain range provides dramatic relief against the urban sprawl.
Landing at PIX
RIGHTRight-side seats during descent into Pico provide views of the Azores' volcanic terrain and the Atlantic coastline. The island's distinctive topography and surrounding ocean are most visible on the right during standard approach vectors.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Pico (PIX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Pico. While the takeoff offers excellent LA basin views, the landing approach into Pico provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery—the volcanic peak and Atlantic setting are more striking than typical urban sprawl. Right-side seats capture the approach's best features.
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 San Gabriel Mountains and the Los Angeles basin spreading eastward during the typical eastbound initial climb. The mountain range provides dramatic relief against the urban sprawl. Notable sights include: San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles basin urban grid, Pacific Ocean to the west, Long Beach port facilities.
What can I see when landing at Pico in Pico?
When landing at Pico (PIX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats during descent into Pico provide views of the Azores' volcanic terrain and the Atlantic coastline. The island's distinctive topography and surrounding ocean are most visible on the right during standard approach vectors. Notable sights include: Pico volcano (2,351 m peak), Atlantic Ocean, neighboring Faial Island, volcanic crater formations.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Pico?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Pico (PIX) takes about 11 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 4,810 miles (7,740 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Los Angeles to Pico flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 8-9 hours with no significant landmarks visible—only open ocean. Departing LAX, the aircraft climbs over Southern California's mountains and coast, then heads northeast over the continental US before turning east across the Atlantic. The Azores archipelago becomes visible approximately 1-2 hours before landing at Pico, with other islands in the chain (Faial, São Jorge) visible during the final descent phase. No major continental landmasses are crossed after leaving North America until approaching the Azores.