Phoenix to Carlsbad flight path: PHX to CNM

Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to Carlsbad. The left side wins overall thanks to the dramatic Superstition Mountains and rugged central Arizona high country visible during departure and cruise, which outweighs the right side's single scenic moment over the Guadalupe Mountains near landing.

During takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing PHX to the east, the left side offers views of the Superstition Mountains rising abruptly from the desert floor northeast of the city, along with the rugged Mazatzal Mountains further out. The right side shows the flatter South Mountain Park and Sonoran desert basin, which is less visually striking. Notable sights include: Superstition Mountains, Mazatzal Mountains, Salt River Valley, South Mountain Park (right side, lesser).

When landing at Cavern City Air Terminal (CNM), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into Cavern City Air Terminal, the flight path typically brings the aircraft in from the northwest, putting the Guadalupe Mountains and the rugged terrain around Carlsbad Caverns National Park on the right side of the plane. The left side during descent shows mostly flat New Mexico plains with little visual interest. Notable sights include: Guadalupe Mountains, Carlsbad Caverns National Park escarpment, Pecos River valley.

The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Cavern City Air Terminal (CNM) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 455 miles (733 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.

Central Arizona high desert and the transition into the flatter plains of eastern New Mexico near Roswell, with the Sacramento Mountains visible in the distance to the south before descent.