About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Los Angeles International (LAX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to Los Angeles. While the left side has the better PHX departure view, the right side wins overall because the LAX arrival over the LA Basin with the Santa Monica Mountains and downtown skyline is the more dramatic and memorable sequence. During the cruise portion heading west-northwest, the right side also picks up views of the Mojave Desert terrain and the transition into the LA Basin.
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 typically departs westbound on runways 26L/26R, so the left (south) side gives you a clear view of South Mountain Park and the broad Salt River valley as you climb out. You also get a good look back at downtown Phoenix and Tempe Town Lake before turning northwest. Notable sights include: South Mountain Park, Tempe Town Lake, downtown Phoenix skyline, Estrella Mountain Regional Park.
What can I see when landing at Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
When landing at Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Right side for the best views. LAX primarily lands eastbound on runways 24L/24R or westbound on 06L/06R depending on wind, but the dominant westerly flow means most arrivals come in from the east over the LA Basin. On the standard approach from the east, the right (north) side gives you the Santa Monica Mountains, the Hollywood Hills, and a sweeping view of the LA Basin and downtown before turning over the coast. Notable sights include: Santa Monica Mountains, Hollywood Hills, downtown Los Angeles skyline, Santa Monica Bay coastline.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to Los Angeles?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Los Angeles International (LAX) takes Approximately 55 to 70 minutes.
What does the Phoenix to Los Angeles flight path pass over?
The flight tracks west-northwest across the Sonoran Desert, crossing the Colorado River near Blythe, then over the low ranges of the Chuckwalla Mountains and the eastern Mojave Desert. The Salton Sea may be visible to the south on clear days. The terrain transitions from open desert to the San Bernardino Valley and the eastern suburbs of the LA Basin as you descend.