While the takeoff offers scenic coastal views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained visual interest with the Phoenix valley, mountain ranges, and urban sprawl. The right side captures both the approach scenery and the destination context.
Flight Path
Kern County agricultural plains and oil fields (central California), Sierra Nevada foothills (eastern California), Mojave Desert with scattered dry lakes and mining operations, San Bernardino Mountains marking the California-Arizona border
Phase by phase
Takeoff from
Landing at
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Monterey to Phoenix. While the takeoff offers scenic coastal views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained visual interest with the Phoenix valley, mountain ranges, and urban sprawl. The right side captures both the approach scenery and the destination context.
What can I see during takeoff from Monterey Regional Airport in Monterey?
During takeoff from Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Monterey Peninsula coastline and Monterey Bay immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs southeast, so the left wing shows the dramatic rocky coast, Carmel-by-the-Sea cliffs, and the Pacific Ocean receding westward. Notable sights include: Monterey Bay, Carmel-by-the-Sea coastline, Santa Lucia Mountains (inland), Pacific Ocean.
What can I see when landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
When landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides the best view during descent into Phoenix. The aircraft approaches from the west-northwest, and the right wing shows the Phoenix metropolitan area sprawl, the Salt River valley, and the surrounding desert mountains that frame the city. Notable sights include: Phoenix metropolitan area, Salt River valley, South Mountain Park, Superstition Mountains (distant).
How long is the flight from Monterey to Phoenix?
The flight from Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) takes 2h 15m.
What does the Monterey to Phoenix flight path pass over?
Kern County agricultural plains and oil fields (central California), Sierra Nevada foothills (eastern California), Mojave Desert with scattered dry lakes and mining operations, San Bernardino Mountains marking the California-Arizona border