Loading map...
BFL → SFO
Which side of the plane to sit from Meadows Field (Bakersfield) to San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior perspective of the rugged Coast Ranges, the dense tech campuses of Silicon Valley, and an iconic view of the San Francisco skyline and Peninsula during the final approach.
Search flights from BFL to SFO
Coast Ranges
Aerial views of the folded ridges of the Temblor and Diablo ranges that separate the valley from the coast.
Silicon Valley
Spot the sprawling headquarters of major tech companies in San Jose, Mountain View, and Palo Alto.
Stanford University
The distinctive red-tiled roofs and Hoover Tower are clearly visible as you track north.
San Francisco Skyline
On a standard approach into SFO, the skyscrapers and downtown core appear prominently on the left.
Opt for the left side on morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is prime for spotting the San Andreas Fault lines in the hills and getting a clear look at the Golden Gate Bridge if the plane performs a wide northern loop before landing.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United States
San Joaquin Valley
A patchwork quilt of orchards and agricultural fields stretching toward the distant Sierra Nevada.
Mount Diablo
A massive, isolated peak that serves as a primary navigational landmark for pilots in the East Bay.
SF-Oakland Bay Bridge
The double-decked span connecting the East Bay to the city, often seen crossing the blue waters of the bay.
Levi's Stadium
The home of the 49ers is easily identifiable in Santa Clara shortly before the final descent.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to capture the 'Golden Hour' light reflecting off the San Francisco Bay. Look for the colorful salt evaporation ponds near the San Mateo Bridge, which display vibrant reds and yellows from the air.
Book Hotels in San FranciscoDistance: 383 km (238 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: BFL (35.43360138, -119.0569992)
Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.