The left side wins overall because the cruise phase tracks close to the Grand Canyon and Colorado Plateau country in northern Arizona and southern Utah, and the approach into Boise adds a scenic foothills view — giving the left side more sustained terrain drama across the whole flight compared to the mostly flat basin-and-range scenery on the right.
Flown PHX to BOI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Phoenix to Boise is 736 miles (1,184 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
Colorado Plateau and the southern rim of the Grand Canyon region, followed by the high desert basins of southern Utah and eastern Nevada before descending into the Snake River Plain near Boise
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHX
RIGHTDeparting PHX northbound, the initial climb and turn put Camelback Mountain, Papago Park's red buttes, and the jagged Superstition Mountains on the right side of the aircraft. These are some of the most recognizable desert landmarks near Phoenix and are best seen from the east-facing window during the climb-out.
Landing at BOI
LEFTOn approach into Boise from the south, the aircraft descends over the Treasure Valley with the Boise Foothills and the start of the Owyhee uplift visible off the left side, giving a nice contrast between irrigated farmland and dry foothill terrain just before touchdown. This is a much more dynamic view than the flat valley scenery on the right.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Boise Air Terminal (BOI)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to Boise. The left side wins overall because the cruise phase tracks close to the Grand Canyon and Colorado Plateau country in northern Arizona and southern Utah, and the approach into Boise adds a scenic foothills view — giving the left side more sustained terrain drama across the whole flight compared to the mostly flat basin-and-range scenery on the right.
What can I see during takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
During takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing PHX northbound, the initial climb and turn put Camelback Mountain, Papago Park's red buttes, and the jagged Superstition Mountains on the right side of the aircraft. These are some of the most recognizable desert landmarks near Phoenix and are best seen from the east-facing window during the climb-out. Notable sights include: Camelback Mountain, Papago Park, Superstition Mountains, McDowell Mountains.
What can I see when landing at Boise Air Terminal in Boise?
When landing at Boise Air Terminal (BOI), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach into Boise from the south, the aircraft descends over the Treasure Valley with the Boise Foothills and the start of the Owyhee uplift visible off the left side, giving a nice contrast between irrigated farmland and dry foothill terrain just before touchdown. This is a much more dynamic view than the flat valley scenery on the right. Notable sights include: Boise Foothills, Boise River, Treasure Valley farmland, Owyhee Mountains (distant).
How long is the flight from Phoenix to Boise?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Boise Air Terminal (BOI) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 736 miles (1,184 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Phoenix to Boise flight path pass over?
Colorado Plateau and the southern rim of the Grand Canyon region, followed by the high desert basins of southern Utah and eastern Nevada before descending into the Snake River Plain near Boise