About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to North Island Nas (NZY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to San Diego. The right side misses the best of the Phoenix departure but wins decisively on landing with the San Diego Bay and Coronado panorama. During the cruise over the Sonoran Desert and into Southern California, the right side also picks up better views of the Salton Sea as the flight tracks northwest, making it the stronger choice across the full 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 San Diego, a left-side seat gives you a clear view south over the South Mountain Park massif and the broad Salt River valley. You also get the better angle on downtown Phoenix receding behind you. Notable sights include: South Mountain Park (largest municipal park in the US, clearly visible as a dark rocky ridge), Estrella Mountain Regional Park to the southwest, the Salt River floodplain and its dry braided channels, downtown Phoenix skyline.
What can I see when landing at North Island Nas in San Diego?
When landing at North Island Nas (NZY), sit on the Right side for the best views. NZY sits on the north shore of San Diego Bay, and approaches typically come in from the east or northeast. A right-side seat on approach gives you the full panorama of San Diego Bay, Coronado Island, and the Pacific Ocean opening up ahead. The left side faces inland toward Mission Hills and less dramatic terrain. Notable sights include: San Diego Bay and its naval installations, Coronado Island and the Silver Strand, Point Loma peninsula, downtown San Diego skyline.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to San Diego?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to North Island Nas (NZY) takes Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes.
What does the Phoenix to San Diego flight path pass over?
The flight tracks west-northwest across the Sonoran Desert, crossing the Gila River valley, then the Kofa Mountains and Chocolate Mountains. The Salton Sea is visible to the right (north) as a large pale inland body of water in the Imperial Valley. The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and the Santa Rosa Mountains appear before the descent into coastal San Diego.