About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to Burbank. While the left side has a decent Phoenix departure view, the right side delivers the more dramatic payoff: the Mojave Desert transition, and then the spectacular San Gabriel Mountain wall on approach into Burbank. The mountain scenery on descent is the highlight of this short flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
During takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Left side for the best views. PHX primarily uses runways 7R/25L and 8/26. Departing westbound toward BUR, a left-side seat faces south, giving you a clear view of South Mountain Park rising from the desert floor and the broad expanse of the Salt River valley. The Phoenix metro grid spreads out dramatically below before the desert opens up. Notable sights include: South Mountain Park, Salt River bed, Phoenix downtown skyline, Estrella Mountain Regional Park.
What can I see when landing at Burbank Glendale Pasadena in Burbank?
When landing at Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR), sit on the Right side for the best views. BUR typically uses runway 8 for arrivals from the east, meaning the approach comes in from the east-northeast over the San Gabriel Valley. A right-side seat faces north, putting the San Gabriel Mountains — including Mount Wilson and the front range — directly in view during the descent. The approach over Glendale and Burbank also gives right-side passengers a look at the LA basin spreading westward. Notable sights include: San Gabriel Mountains front range, Mount Wilson, Verdugo Mountains, Glendale and Burbank urban grid.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to Burbank?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR) takes Approximately 55 to 70 minutes.
What does the Phoenix to Burbank flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the lower Mojave Desert over San Bernardino County, passing north of the Chiriaco Summit area and over the broad Coachella Valley region before crossing the San Bernardino Mountains and descending into the Los Angeles basin. The Salton Sea may be faintly visible to the south on clear days. The transition from stark Mojave desert to the dense LA urban sprawl is abrupt and striking.