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BJX destination photo
SFO destination photo

BJXSFO

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior panoramic experience, featuring the rugged Sierra Madre Occidental, the unique Salton Sea, and the most iconic views of the San Francisco Peninsula and Silicon Valley during the final approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
⛰️

Sierra Madre Occidental

Stunning views of the rugged, deep canyons and high peaks of Mexico's western mountain range shortly after departure.

🌵

Sonoran Desert

Expansive vistas of the arid borderlands, characterized by unique geological formations and desert vegetation.

🌊

Salton Sea

A striking view of California's largest lake, appearing as a deep blue oasis in the middle of the desert.

🏙️

Silicon Valley

As the flight descends, look for the sprawling tech campuses of Mountain View, Palo Alto, and San Jose.

🌉

San Francisco Peninsula

Breathtaking views of the San Mateo Bridge and the coastal mountain range separating the Bay from the Pacific.

The left side is best for morning flights to avoid the harsh afternoon sun glare. As you approach SFO, keep your camera ready for the 'Bridge Visual' approach, which provides a low-altitude view of the southern Bay Area marshlands. In winter, the Sierra Madre peaks may be capped with light snow, offering great contrast against the desert.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏜️

High Desert Plains

Views of the high-altitude Chihuahuan desert landscapes in North-Central Mexico.

💧

Colorado River

The winding path of the Colorado River near the Arizona-California border, often visible as a bright blue line.

🏔️

High Sierra Nevada

In the distance to the north, you can often see the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada range, including Mount Whitney.

🚜

Central Valley

The massive, geometric patchwork of California's agricultural heartland stretching toward the horizon.

🏗️

East Bay & Oakland

During landing, enjoy views of the Port of Oakland, the Bay Bridge, and the Berkeley hills.

Choose the right side if you are flying in the late afternoon to see the desert landscape illuminated by the golden hour. This side also offers a better view of the East Bay cities and the hills during the final banking turns into SFO. Keep an eye out for the San Andreas Fault line visible as a distinct ridge in the landscape as you enter California.

Top Activities in San Francisco
Route Information

Distance: 2,730 km (1,696 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 38 min

Departure: BJX (20.9935, -101.481003)

Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)

Route Type: International

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