Loreto to Phoenix is 516 miles (830 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The northbound departure from Loreto offers superior scenic value with the Sea of Cortez and dramatic Baja California topography. While the Phoenix landing provides urban interest, the takeoff views are more geographically distinctive and visually compelling.
Flight Path
Crossing the Sea of Cortez, the Colorado River delta region, Imperial Valley agricultural lands, and the transition from Baja California desert into the Sonoran Desert of Arizona. The flight path crosses over the Pinacate Biosphere Reserve and approaches Phoenix from the southwest across open desert terrain.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LTO
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Sea of Cortez immediately after departure, with the Loreto coastline and peninsular geography receding beneath the aircraft. The water body provides striking contrast and the initial climb offers excellent views of the rugged Baja California Sur terrain.

Landing at PHX
LEFTLeft-side seats provide the best views during the descent approach into Phoenix. You'll see the transition from desert scrubland into the Phoenix metropolitan area, with the Salt River valley and surrounding mountain ranges framing the approach corridor.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Loreto International (LTO) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Loreto to Phoenix. The northbound departure from Loreto offers superior scenic value with the Sea of Cortez and dramatic Baja California topography. While the Phoenix landing provides urban interest, the takeoff views are more geographically distinctive and visually compelling.
What can I see during takeoff from Loreto International in Loreto?
During takeoff from Loreto International (LTO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Sea of Cortez immediately after departure, with the Loreto coastline and peninsular geography receding beneath the aircraft. The water body provides striking contrast and the initial climb offers excellent views of the rugged Baja California Sur terrain. Notable sights include: Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California), Loreto Bay, Sierra de la Giganta mountain range, Baja California Peninsula coastline.
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. Left-side seats provide the best views during the descent approach into Phoenix. You'll see the transition from desert scrubland into the Phoenix metropolitan area, with the Salt River valley and surrounding mountain ranges framing the approach corridor. Notable sights include: Phoenix metropolitan area, Salt River valley, South Mountain Park, Sierra Estrella mountains.
How long is the flight from Loreto to Phoenix?
The flight from Loreto International (LTO) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 516 miles (830 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Loreto to Phoenix flight path pass over?
Crossing the Sea of Cortez, the Colorado River delta region, Imperial Valley agricultural lands, and the transition from Baja California desert into the Sonoran Desert of Arizona. The flight path crosses over the Pinacate Biosphere Reserve and approaches Phoenix from the southwest across open desert terrain.