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ABQ → OAK
Which side of the plane to sit from Albuquerque International Sunport (Albuquerque) to Metropolitan Oakland International Airport (Oakland)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of major landmarks including the Grand Canyon, the bright lights of Las Vegas, and the stunning blue expanse of Lake Tahoe as you cross the Sierra Nevada.
Mount Taylor
A prominent stratovolcano that dominates the horizon west of Albuquerque during the initial climb.
Grand Canyon
Stunning vistas of the South Rim and the vast carved plateaus of Northern Arizona.
Las Vegas Strip
The dense cluster of mega-resorts and the High Roller observation wheel standing out from the desert floor.
Death Valley
The stark, white salt flats of Badwater Basin and the surrounding jagged mountain ranges.
Lake Tahoe
Often visible to the north, this deep blue alpine lake is a highlight of the Sierra Nevada crossing.
Mount Diablo
The iconic peak that serves as a visual landmark for the final approach into the East Bay.
The right side is the 'star' of this route. For the best view of the Las Vegas Strip, choose a seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed downward view. If flying in winter, the snow-covered Sierra Nevada range provides a spectacular contrast against the arid Nevada basins. Keep your camera ready about 45 minutes before landing for the best mountain shots.
El Malpais National Monument
Dramatic black lava flows and volcanic landscapes visible shortly after departing Albuquerque.
Petrified Forest National Park
Colorful badlands and ancient fossilized wood deposits scattered across the Arizona desert.
Meteor Crater
A massive, well-preserved impact site visible as a giant circular depression in the desert floor.
Southern Sierra Nevada
Rugged, snow-capped peaks of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks as you approach California.
South San Francisco Bay
Vibrant, multicolored salt ponds and the sprawling tech hubs of Silicon Valley during the final descent.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. This side is excellent for seeing the distinct geometric patterns of the South Bay salt ponds. During late afternoon flights, you will experience a dramatic sunset over the Pacific horizon as you approach the Bay Area.
Distance: 1,427 km (887 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 54 min
Departure: ABQ (35.040199, -106.609001)
Arrival: OAK (37.721298, -122.221001)
Route Type: Domestic
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