Left side wins overall because while the right side has the Superstitions on departure, the left side captures the full length of the flight's most dramatic geography: the Verde Valley and Mogollon Rim escarpment in central Arizona, the transition into Utah's canyon country, and the spectacular approach over the Great Salt Lake. The lake alone is one of the most visually striking features on any domestic US route.
Flight Path
Mogollon Rim escarpment in central Arizona, Verde Valley, the high plateau of the Colorado Plateau transitioning into Utah, the San Rafael Swell's eroded canyon terrain visible in central Utah, and the Wasatch Plateau before descending into the Salt Lake valley
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHX
RIGHTPHX typically departs north on runway 26 or 8, and climbing out northbound puts the right side facing east toward the Superstition Mountains and the Salt River valley. You get a clear look at the distinctive jagged profile of the Superstitions and the sprawling Phoenix metro grid below.
Landing at SLC
LEFTSLC typically lands from the south on runway 16L/16R, meaning the approach comes in from the south heading north. The left side faces west over the Great Salt Lake, which is enormous and unmistakable, while the right side looks toward the Wasatch Front — but the lake is the more dramatic and unique feature on this route.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
Will your flight be in sunlight?
See exactly which side of the plane gets sun and shade at your departure time.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Salt Lake City International (SLC)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to Salt Lake City. Left side wins overall because while the right side has the Superstitions on departure, the left side captures the full length of the flight's most dramatic geography: the Verde Valley and Mogollon Rim escarpment in central Arizona, the transition into Utah's canyon country, and the spectacular approach over the Great Salt Lake. The lake alone is one of the most visually striking features on any domestic US route.
What can I see during takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
During takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Right side for the best views. PHX typically departs north on runway 26 or 8, and climbing out northbound puts the right side facing east toward the Superstition Mountains and the Salt River valley. You get a clear look at the distinctive jagged profile of the Superstitions and the sprawling Phoenix metro grid below. Notable sights include: Superstition Mountains to the east, South Mountain Park directly below, Tempe Town Lake, Phoenix metro grid.
What can I see when landing at Salt Lake City International in Salt Lake City?
When landing at Salt Lake City International (SLC), sit on the Left side for the best views. SLC typically lands from the south on runway 16L/16R, meaning the approach comes in from the south heading north. The left side faces west over the Great Salt Lake, which is enormous and unmistakable, while the right side looks toward the Wasatch Front — but the lake is the more dramatic and unique feature on this route. Notable sights include: Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island, Wasatch Front mountains, Salt Lake City downtown grid.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to Salt Lake City?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Salt Lake City International (SLC) takes Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
What does the Phoenix to Salt Lake City flight path pass over?
Mogollon Rim escarpment in central Arizona, Verde Valley, the high plateau of the Colorado Plateau transitioning into Utah, the San Rafael Swell's eroded canyon terrain visible in central Utah, and the Wasatch Plateau before descending into the Salt Lake valley