Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery on departure from the high-altitude Wasatch Plateau and Book Cliffs region. While left-side landing views are strong, the takeoff scenery from Salina is more visually distinctive and geologically interesting than the urban approach to Phoenix.
Flown SBO to PHX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Salina to Phoenix is 387 miles (622 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the San Rafael Swell and transitions from high desert plateau (around 6,000-8,000 feet elevation) to lower desert basin. You'll pass over the Henry Mountains (visible as a distant ridge to the east around midpoint), then descend into the lower Sonoran Desert as you approach the Phoenix basin. The Colorado River drainage system becomes visible in the lower portion of the flight, and the terrain gradually transitions from red-rock canyon country to low desert scrub and urban development.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SBO
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Wasatch Plateau and Book Cliffs as you climb southwestward from Salina. The terrain immediately south and southeast of the airport is visually dramatic with high desert ridges and canyons.
Landing at PHX
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Phoenix, including the Salt River valley, downtown Phoenix skyline, and the surrounding desert mountains. The approach typically brings you over the Salt River and urban sprawl before landing from the north or northeast.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Salina-Gunnison Airport (SBO) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Salina to Phoenix. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery on departure from the high-altitude Wasatch Plateau and Book Cliffs region. While left-side landing views are strong, the takeoff scenery from Salina is more visually distinctive and geologically interesting than the urban approach to Phoenix.
What can I see during takeoff from Salina-Gunnison Airport in Salina?
During takeoff from Salina-Gunnison Airport (SBO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Wasatch Plateau and Book Cliffs as you climb southwestward from Salina. The terrain immediately south and southeast of the airport is visually dramatic with high desert ridges and canyons. Notable sights include: Wasatch Plateau (east), Book Cliffs (southeast), San Rafael Swell (south), Salina Valley floor (immediate foreground).
What can I see when landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
When landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Phoenix, including the Salt River valley, downtown Phoenix skyline, and the surrounding desert mountains. The approach typically brings you over the Salt River and urban sprawl before landing from the north or northeast. Notable sights include: Salt River valley (foreground during descent), Phoenix downtown skyline (center), South Mountain Park (south of city), Sierra Estrella Mountains (southwest horizon).
How long is the flight from Salina to Phoenix?
The flight from Salina-Gunnison Airport (SBO) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 387 miles (622 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Salina to Phoenix flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the San Rafael Swell and transitions from high desert plateau (around 6,000-8,000 feet elevation) to lower desert basin. You'll pass over the Henry Mountains (visible as a distant ridge to the east around midpoint), then descend into the lower Sonoran Desert as you approach the Phoenix basin. The Colorado River drainage system becomes visible in the lower portion of the flight, and the terrain gradually transitions from red-rock canyon country to low desert scrub and urban development.