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ATL destination photo
SAN destination photo

ATLSAN

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side (Starboard) is favored for the dramatic descent into San Diego, offering an iconic eye-level view of the downtown skyscrapers and Balboa Park just before touchdown.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏙️

Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

A sprawling view of the urban landscape and the massive DFW airport hub as you cross North Texas.

⛰️

Southern Rockies

Scenic views of the rugged high-altitude terrain and plateaus of New Mexico and Arizona.

☄️

Meteor Crater

On certain northern corridors, the nearly perfect circular impact site near Winslow, AZ is visible.

🌳

Balboa Park

The lush greenery and historic Spanish-style architecture of the park appear just seconds before landing.

🏙️

Downtown San Diego Skyline

A world-class landing experience where you fly incredibly close to the towering skyscrapers of the city center.

The right side is essential for the 'San Diego Arrival.' Request a window seat on the right to see the downtown buildings at eye level. For late afternoon flights, be aware of potential glare as the sun sets in the west directly ahead or to the right.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Mississippi River Crossing

Aerial view of the massive river winding through the Louisiana and Mississippi border region.

⚪

White Sands National Park

The striking bright white gypsum dunes of New Mexico are often visible against the desert floor.

🏜️

The Salton Sea

A massive, shimmering inland saline lake located in the California desert south of the flight path.

🌉

Coronado Bridge

As you turn for the final approach, the iconic blue bridge connecting San Diego to Coronado island is visible.

⚓

San Diego Bay

Vibrant views of the Naval Base San Diego and the various ships docked in the harbor during landing.

On morning flights, the left side will be shaded from the direct sun, providing better conditions for photography of the southern desert landscapes. During the final approach, keep your camera ready for the naval fleet and the Pacific horizon.

Top Activities in San Diego
Route Information

Distance: 3,038 km (1,888 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 34 min

Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)

Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)

Route Type: Domestic

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