While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach into ABQ on the left side is significantly more dramatic and visually rewarding. The Sandia Mountains and Rio Grande valley create a striking finale that outweighs the modest takeoff views.
Flown MCO to ABQ? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Orlando to Albuquerque is 1,550 miles (2,495 km), a flight of about 4 hours.
The flight path crosses the Gulf Coastal Plain, then transitions over Louisiana and Texas. Notable features include the Mississippi River delta region (if visible during climb), the transition from coastal lowlands to the Texas Panhandle, and the gradual rise toward the Rocky Mountain foothills. The Llano Estacado (High Plains of Texas/New Mexico) becomes visible as the flight approaches New Mexico, appearing as elevated, relatively featureless terrain. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains may be visible to the north as the aircraft descends toward Albuquerque.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MCO
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the initial climb-out over central Florida's lakes and wetlands. You'll see the distinctive chain of lakes that dot the Orlando area and the beginning of the transition from coastal lowlands to inland terrain.
Landing at ABQ
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into ABQ. You'll see the Sandia Mountains rising dramatically to the east of the airport, and the Rio Grande valley where Albuquerque sits. The approach typically comes from the east, making the left side ideal for viewing the mountain range and the city nestled against it.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Orlando International (MCO) to Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Orlando to Albuquerque. While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach into ABQ on the left side is significantly more dramatic and visually rewarding. The Sandia Mountains and Rio Grande valley create a striking finale that outweighs the modest takeoff views.
What can I see during takeoff from Orlando International in Orlando?
During takeoff from Orlando International (MCO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the initial climb-out over central Florida's lakes and wetlands. You'll see the distinctive chain of lakes that dot the Orlando area and the beginning of the transition from coastal lowlands to inland terrain. Notable sights include: Lake Apopka (large freshwater lake west of MCO), Shingle Creek (source of the Kissimmee River system), Orlando's downtown skyline to the northwest, Florida's flat terrain and scattered cypress swamps.
What can I see when landing at Albuquerque International Sunport in Albuquerque?
When landing at Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into ABQ. You'll see the Sandia Mountains rising dramatically to the east of the airport, and the Rio Grande valley where Albuquerque sits. The approach typically comes from the east, making the left side ideal for viewing the mountain range and the city nestled against it. Notable sights include: Sandia Mountains (prominent ridge east of Albuquerque), Rio Grande valley and river, Albuquerque's urban sprawl along the valley floor, West Mesa volcanic plateau to the west.
How long is the flight from Orlando to Albuquerque?
The flight from Orlando International (MCO) to Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) takes about 4 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 1,550 miles (2,495 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Orlando to Albuquerque flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Gulf Coastal Plain, then transitions over Louisiana and Texas. Notable features include the Mississippi River delta region (if visible during climb), the transition from coastal lowlands to the Texas Panhandle, and the gradual rise toward the Rocky Mountain foothills. The Llano Estacado (High Plains of Texas/New Mexico) becomes visible as the flight approaches New Mexico, appearing as elevated, relatively featureless terrain. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains may be visible to the north as the aircraft descends toward Albuquerque.