While the takeoff offers excellent volcanic views on the left, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained Andean scenery on the right side. The descent into Quito showcases multiple high peaks and the spectacular inter-Andean valley, making it the more visually rewarding segment of the flight.
Flown MEX to UIO? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Mexico City to Quito is 1,948 miles (3,136 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Guatemala and Honduras, passing east of the Sierra Madre mountain range. Over Guatemala, you may see Lake Atitlán and the volcanic highlands. The route then crosses the Yucatán Peninsula region and continues south over Central America, eventually reaching the Pacific coast of Central America before turning southeast toward Ecuador. The descent into Quito approaches from the north along the inter-Andean valley, with views of multiple volcanic peaks in the Ecuadorian highlands.
Great circle distance and headings ›_(cropped).jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MEX
LEFTLeft-side seats capture the Valley of Mexico and the surrounding volcanic peaks as you climb out. The aircraft departs eastbound initially, giving left-side passengers a clear view of the high-altitude terrain that defines Mexico City's geography.
Landing at UIO
RIGHTRight-side seats offer the best views during descent into Quito. The aircraft approaches from the north, and right-side passengers see the Andes cordillera, particularly the eastern peaks and the high plateau terrain surrounding the city. The descent path reveals the dramatic topography of the inter-Andean valley.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Licenciado Benito Juarez International (MEX) to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Mexico City to Quito. While the takeoff offers excellent volcanic views on the left, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained Andean scenery on the right side. The descent into Quito showcases multiple high peaks and the spectacular inter-Andean valley, making it the more visually rewarding segment of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Licenciado Benito Juarez International in Mexico City?
During takeoff from Licenciado Benito Juarez International (MEX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats capture the Valley of Mexico and the surrounding volcanic peaks as you climb out. The aircraft departs eastbound initially, giving left-side passengers a clear view of the high-altitude terrain that defines Mexico City's geography. Notable sights include: Popocatépetl volcano (5,426m, visible 70km southeast), Iztaccihuatl volcano (5,230m, to the east), Lake Texcoco remnants and Mexico City urban sprawl, Sierra de Guadalupe mountains to the north.
What can I see when landing at Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito?
When landing at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer the best views during descent into Quito. The aircraft approaches from the north, and right-side passengers see the Andes cordillera, particularly the eastern peaks and the high plateau terrain surrounding the city. The descent path reveals the dramatic topography of the inter-Andean valley. Notable sights include: Pichincha volcano complex (4,784m, immediately adjacent to Quito), Cotopaxi volcano (5,897m, visible to the south on clear days), the inter-Andean valley floor with Quito's urban development, Antisana volcano (5,753m, to the southeast).
How long is the flight from Mexico City to Quito?
The flight from Licenciado Benito Juarez International (MEX) to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,948 miles (3,136 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Mexico City to Quito flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Guatemala and Honduras, passing east of the Sierra Madre mountain range. Over Guatemala, you may see Lake Atitlán and the volcanic highlands. The route then crosses the Yucatán Peninsula region and continues south over Central America, eventually reaching the Pacific coast of Central America before turning southeast toward Ecuador. The descent into Quito approaches from the north along the inter-Andean valley, with views of multiple volcanic peaks in the Ecuadorian highlands.