About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International (ZIH) to Los Angeles International (LAX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Zihuatanejo to Los Angeles. Right side wins both ends of the flight. During the cruise northward along the Mexican and Baja California coast, the right side also keeps the coastline in view for much of the journey, including the Baja Peninsula appearing in the distance as you approach Southern California.
What can I see during takeoff from Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International in Zihuatanejo?
During takeoff from Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International (ZIH), sit on the Right side for the best views. ZIH's primary runway 27 means departure is westward over the Pacific, and the right (north) side gives you views back over Zihuatanejo Bay, the rocky headlands, and the Sierra Madre del Sur foothills rising inland. The left side faces open ocean with little to see. Notable sights include: Zihuatanejo Bay and its curved beach arc, Ixtapa resort strip to the northwest, Sierra Madre del Sur ridgelines inland, Isla Ixtapa just offshore.
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's most common arrival configuration brings aircraft in from the east or southeast on runways 24L/24R, meaning the right side faces north over the Los Angeles Basin with clear views of downtown LA, the Santa Monica Mountains, and the San Gabriel Mountains as a backdrop. The left side looks south over the South Bay and open ocean. Notable sights include: Downtown Los Angeles skyline, Santa Monica Mountains and Griffith Park ridgeline, San Gabriel Mountains on the horizon, Santa Monica Bay coastline.
How long is the flight from Zihuatanejo to Los Angeles?
The flight from Ixtapa Zihuatanejo International (ZIH) to Los Angeles International (LAX) takes Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 45 minutes.
What does the Zihuatanejo to Los Angeles flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northwest over the Pacific parallel to the Mexican coast, passing offshore from Manzanillo and Puerto Vallarta. The tip of the Baja California Peninsula becomes visible from the right side as you approach Southern California. The Channel Islands — San Clemente, Santa Catalina, and San Nicolas — appear as dark elongated shapes in the Pacific to the right before descent into LAX.