About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Reno Tahoe International (RNO)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Reno. While the right side wins at takeoff, the left side delivers the more dramatic sustained scenery — the Mojave Desert terrain, the approach to the Sierra Nevada from the east, and the spectacular Lake Tahoe view on descent make it the stronger choice for the full flight experience.
What can I see during takeoff from Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
During takeoff from Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Right side for the best views. LAX typically departs westbound over the ocean before turning north. On a right-side seat, as the aircraft banks left (northward) after takeoff, you get a sweeping view back over the Santa Monica Bay, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and the LA basin sprawling inland. Left-side passengers face the open Pacific during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Santa Monica Bay, Palos Verdes Peninsula, Downtown LA skyline, Santa Monica Mountains.
What can I see when landing at Reno Tahoe International in Reno?
When landing at Reno Tahoe International (RNO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Reno typically lands on runways oriented roughly north-south (16R/34L). On approach from the south, a left-side seat gives you a direct view of Lake Tahoe sitting in its mountain basin to the southwest — one of the most visually striking features in the American West. The Sierra Nevada crest is clearly visible on that side throughout the descent. Notable sights include: Lake Tahoe, Sierra Nevada crest, Truckee Meadows (Reno valley floor), Pyramid Lake to the north.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Reno?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Reno Tahoe International (RNO) takes Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
What does the Los Angeles to Reno flight path pass over?
The Mojave Desert dominates the mid-flight view with its dry lake beds and sparse basin-and-range terrain. The Tehachapi Mountains are crossed early in the flight. The Owens Valley and the eastern escarpment of the Sierra Nevada become visible as the aircraft approaches central California. The White Mountains east of the Sierra are visible on the right side. As the flight nears Reno, the Great Basin high desert transitions into the Truckee Meadows basin.