The World’s Most Scenic Flights

Whether you’re sitting in the captain’s chair because you’re a professional pilot or in the passenger’s chair, no vantage point compares to the views seen from an airplane. Nothing gives you perspective and appreciation for the Earth’s beauty like the view from the skies. We’re going to look at some of the world’s most scenic flights that demand a captain’s chair or a window seat.  

UA2093 – Dallas-Fort Worth to San Francisco

One of the most scenic routes in the US, this four-hour journey begins with the urban sprawl of Dallas, before ascending over the barren Texas panhandle and eventually meeting the Rocky Mountains in Utah. The highlight has to be Yosemite National Park. The approach into SFO is a site to take in with the bay and historic Golden Gate Bridge.

CX257 – Hong Kong to London Heathrow

Hong Kong is one of the best airports to depart from while Heathrow is a fantastic airport to land at. The amount of traffic you’re sharing the sky with makes for a unique experience. The highlight of this route has to be the Gobi Desert as you’re flying over China. The desert leads you into the Mongolian Steppe and into the icy wilderness of Siberia. The contrast of scenery on this flight is unforgettable.

LA2081 – Lima to Puerto Maldonado

Peru is perhaps the most naturally diverse countries in South America. You get to take it all in with the flight from Lima to Puerto Maldonado. Once you fly over the urban sprawl of the capital you’re quickly into the foothills of the Andes, the spectacular mountain range that’s home to Machu Picchu. Once you’re over the other side, you’re greeted with the vast green lushness of the Amazon rainforest.

QF63 – Sydney to Johannesburg

If you’ve ever wanted to take a dedicated scenic flight to Antarctica, but couldn’t swing it, this is a good backup. The shortest route between Sydney and Johannesburg will take you south right across the edge of Antarctica. For the best views of the icebergs and tundra, make sure you’re seated on the port side of the plane – then hope for good weather. If it’s a clear day, you’ll be blown away. 

AC8889 – Vancouver to Whitehorse

There are some flights that are advertised as scenic flights that don’t come close to this commercial flight. The views of lush forests and sparkling water around Vancouver quickly turn to white peaks and glaciers as you hit the high country. With stretches across the jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains as they open up into the Yukon, this is flight is a wilderness lover’s dream come true.

A Career With the Best Views

If you want to spend your seeing the world from the best seat possible, then a career in aviation might be for you. The process of becoming a pilot depends on your goals, but it can be a highly lucrative and rewarding career.