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BLI → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Bellingham International Airport (Bellingham) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic peaks of the Cascade Range, including the most famous volcanoes in the lower 48, and provides the iconic urban approach into San Diego.
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Washington Volcanoes
Unrivaled views of Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens, and Mt. Adams shortly after departure.
Mount Hood
A close-up view of Oregon's highest peak as you fly past the Portland area.
Mount Shasta
The massive, snow-capped stratovolcano dominates the Northern California horizon for nearly 100 miles.
Sierra Nevada
Vistas of the high peaks of the Sierra range and the Yosemite valley area to the east.
San Diego Urban Approach
One of the most thrilling landings in aviation, passing inches from downtown skyscrapers and Balboa Park.
Book an early morning flight to see the sun rising over the Cascades without glare. Ensure you are on the left for the landing at SAN, as the plane typically approaches from the east, providing a spectacular view of the San Diego skyline and the historic El Cortez hotel just before touchdown.
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Salish Sea
Beautiful aerial views of the San Juan Islands and Puget Sound immediately after takeoff.
Olympic Mountains
The rugged, rain-forested peaks of the Olympic National Park are visible across the water.
California Coastline
The dramatic meeting of the Pacific Ocean and the coastal cliffs of Big Sur and the Central Coast.
Channel Islands
The chain of islands off the Southern California coast, including Santa Cruz and Catalina.
Pacific Sunset
Unobstructed views of the sun dipping into the ocean on evening southbound flights.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Pacific. Be aware that the 'June Gloom' marine layer often covers the coast in late spring and early summer, which may obscure the ground until you are south of Los Angeles.
Book Hotels in San DiegoDistance: 1,840 km (1,143 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 27 min
Departure: BLI (48.79280090332031, -122.53800201416016)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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