While takeoff offers good desert and Phoenix views on the left, the landing approach on the right provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery with the San Gabriel Mountains as a major focal point. The westbound flight path also means the right side captures better views during the longer descent phase.
Flown LUF to ONT? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Phoenix to Ontario is 302 miles (486 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
San Bernardino Mountains to the north, Joshua Tree National Park region to the southeast (visible as distant terrain), Mojave Desert floor, transition from Arizona high desert to California inland valleys
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LUF
LEFTLeft side offers immediate views of the Phoenix metropolitan area and the surrounding desert terrain. You'll see Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and the urban sprawl expanding eastward, with the Salt River valley clearly visible.
Landing at ONT
RIGHTRight side provides excellent views during the descent into Ontario. You'll see the San Gabriel Mountains dominating the landscape, the Inland Empire's urban development, and the transition from desert to the Los Angeles basin.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Luke Afb (LUF) to Ontario International (ONT)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to Ontario. While takeoff offers good desert and Phoenix views on the left, the landing approach on the right provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery with the San Gabriel Mountains as a major focal point. The westbound flight path also means the right side captures better views during the longer descent phase.
What can I see during takeoff from Luke Afb in Phoenix?
During takeoff from Luke Afb (LUF), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers immediate views of the Phoenix metropolitan area and the surrounding desert terrain. You'll see Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and the urban sprawl expanding eastward, with the Salt River valley clearly visible. Notable sights include: Phoenix metropolitan area, Salt River valley, South Mountain Park, Arizona desert terrain.
What can I see when landing at Ontario International in Ontario?
When landing at Ontario International (ONT), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views during the descent into Ontario. You'll see the San Gabriel Mountains dominating the landscape, the Inland Empire's urban development, and the transition from desert to the Los Angeles basin. Notable sights include: San Gabriel Mountains, Inland Empire urban area, San Bernardino Valley, Chino Hills.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to Ontario?
The flight from Luke Afb (LUF) to Ontario International (ONT) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 302 miles (486 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Phoenix to Ontario flight path pass over?
San Bernardino Mountains to the north, Joshua Tree National Park region to the southeast (visible as distant terrain), Mojave Desert floor, transition from Arizona high desert to California inland valleys