Loading map...
BUR → OAK
Which side of the plane to sit from Bob Hope Airport (Burbank) to Metropolitan Oakland International Airport (Oakland)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the California coast and the full panorama of the San Francisco Bay and its iconic bridges during the arrival phase.
San Fernando Valley
Aerial view of the sprawling Burbank and Northridge areas immediately after takeoff from Bob Hope Airport.
Central Coastline
Distant glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged terrain of the Santa Lucia Range as you fly north.
Santa Cruz Mountains
Lush forested ridges that separate the coast from the southern end of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Silicon Valley
The tech hubs of San Jose, Mountain View, and Palo Alto visible as the aircraft begins its descent.
San Francisco Bay
Sweeping views of the water, the San Mateo Bridge, and the San Francisco skyline on the horizon.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare and for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Pacific. Keep your camera ready as you cross the South Bay for the best views of the salt ponds and the San Francisco skyline.
San Gabriel Mountains
The towering peaks of the Angeles National Forest rising sharply from the basin floor north of Burbank.
Tehachapi Mountains
The rugged geographic transition zone between Southern California and the vast Central Valley.
San Joaquin Valley
The massive agricultural heartland of California with its distinct geometric field patterns and canals.
Mount Hamilton
Home to the Lick Observatory, visible atop the highest peaks of the Diablo Range during the descent.
East Bay Hills
The rolling golden or green terrain of the Tri-Valley area including Pleasanton and Castro Valley.
The right side is ideal for sunrise flights as the sun illuminates the Central Valley landscape. Look for the massive wind farms near the Altamont Pass during the final approach into Oakland.
Distance: 523 km (325 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 52 min
Departure: BUR (34.200698852539055, -118.35900115966795)
Arrival: OAK (37.721298, -122.221001)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.