The right side wins overall because the dramatic arrival view of the San Gabriel Mountains and Mt. Baldy on approach to ONT is the most visually striking moment of this short flight. During cruise the right side also tracks closer to the Mojave Desert terrain and the transition from Sonoran to Mojave landscapes.
Flown PHX to ONT? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Phoenix to Ontario is 324 miles (522 km), a flight of about 1 hour.
The flight crosses the Harquahala Mountains and the Salome corridor in western Arizona, then transits the Colorado Desert and the low ranges of the Chuckwalla and Orocopia Mountains before descending into the Coachella Valley and the San Gorgonio Pass area. The distinctive wind farms of San Gorgonio Pass are visible just before the Inland Empire on the right side.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHX
LEFTPHX typically departs westbound on runways 26L/26R, so the left (south) side gives you a clear view of South Mountain Park and the broad Phoenix metro grid as you climb out. You'll also catch the Salt River basin and the Estrella Mountains to the southwest.
Landing at ONT
RIGHTONT typically lands eastbound on runways 26L/26R approach from the west, meaning aircraft approach from the west heading east. On the right (south) side you get a clear view of the San Gabriel Mountains rising sharply above the Inland Empire, with Mount San Antonio (Mt. Baldy) prominently visible as the highest peak. The urban sprawl of the Inland Empire fills the foreground below.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Ontario International (ONT)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to Ontario. The right side wins overall because the dramatic arrival view of the San Gabriel Mountains and Mt. Baldy on approach to ONT is the most visually striking moment of this short flight. During cruise the right side also tracks closer to the Mojave Desert terrain and the transition from Sonoran to Mojave landscapes.
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 Phoenix metro grid as you climb out. You'll also catch the Salt River basin and the Estrella Mountains to the southwest. Notable sights include: South Mountain Park, Estrella Mountains, Salt River bed, Phoenix downtown skyline.
What can I see when landing at Ontario International in Ontario?
When landing at Ontario International (ONT), sit on the Right side for the best views. ONT typically lands eastbound on runways 26L/26R approach from the west, meaning aircraft approach from the west heading east. On the right (south) side you get a clear view of the San Gabriel Mountains rising sharply above the Inland Empire, with Mount San Antonio (Mt. Baldy) prominently visible as the highest peak. The urban sprawl of the Inland Empire fills the foreground below. Notable sights include: Mount San Antonio (Mt. Baldy), San Gabriel Mountains, Inland Empire urban grid, San Bernardino Valley.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to Ontario?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Ontario International (ONT) takes about 1 hour. The shortest flight path between them is 324 miles (522 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Phoenix to Ontario flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Harquahala Mountains and the Salome corridor in western Arizona, then transits the Colorado Desert and the low ranges of the Chuckwalla and Orocopia Mountains before descending into the Coachella Valley and the San Gorgonio Pass area. The distinctive wind farms of San Gorgonio Pass are visible just before the Inland Empire on the right side.