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BFL → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Meadows Field (Bakersfield) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side (West) is generally superior for this short hop, offering a direct view of the transition from the rugged Los Padres National Forest to the sprawling San Fernando Valley, and ultimately the Pacific coastline during the final approach maneuvers into LAX.
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Kern Oil Fields
A unique industrial landscape of pumpjacks just south of Bakersfield.
Pyramid Lake
The bright blue waters of the reservoir tucked into the rugged canyons of the Angeles National Forest.
San Fernando Valley
The vast, grid-like suburban expanse that houses the major film studios.
The Getty Center
The distinctive white travertine architecture of the museum perched atop the Santa Monica Mountains.
Santa Monica Bay
Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastline stretching toward Malibu.
The right side is unbeatable for sunset flights, as the sun dips over the Pacific. Keep your eyes peeled as you cross the Santa Monica Mountains; you will see the luxurious estates of Bel Air and Brentwood. During the standard approach (usually from the east), the plane often makes a wide loop over the ocean, giving right-side passengers a view of the Santa Monica Pier before landing.
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Tejon Pass
The dramatic mountain gap where the San Joaquin Valley meets the Transverse Ranges.
The Grapevine
A clear view of the winding Interstate 5 as it climbs through the steep mountain terrain.
San Gabriel Mountains
Towering peaks that border the northern edge of the Los Angeles basin.
Downtown LA Skyline
A stunning perspective of the Wilshire Grand and US Bank Tower during the southern descent.
Dodger Stadium
The iconic baseball stadium nestled in the hills of Chavez Ravine often visible on the left.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the Pacific sun. As you cross the mountains, look for the Hollywood Sign situated on the south-facing slope of Mount Lee. This side is also better for spotting the dense urban core and the high-rises of the Inland Empire in the distance.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 176 km (109 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 18 min
Departure: BFL (35.43360138, -119.0569992)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
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