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BWI destination photo
SFO destination photo

BWISFO

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides provide a grand tour of the American heartland, the Right Side is preferred for its superior views of the Great Lakes region and the iconic San Francisco skyline and Golden Gate Bridge during the final descent into SFO.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏢

Baltimore/D.C. Urban Corridor

Immediate views of the dense Mid-Atlantic urban landscape and the Patapsco River upon takeoff.

🌊

The Great Lakes

Distant but clear views of the shorelines of Lake Erie and Lake Michigan as the plane heads west.

🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Often visible in the distance when the flight path follows the northern transcontinental corridor.

⛰️

Sierra Nevada Peaks

Spectacular views of Lake Tahoe and the high granite peaks of northern California before the descent.

🌉

San Francisco & Golden Gate

On typical clear-weather arrivals (Runways 28L/R), the right side offers the best view of the city and bridge during the turn.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid direct glare from the southern sun. Ensure you are seated forward of the wing for an unobstructed view of the San Francisco city skyline, which usually appears during the final left-hand turn over the bay.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Blue Ridge Mountains

The rolling, ancient ridges of the Appalachian range shortly after departure from the Chesapeake region.

🏙️

St. Louis Gateway Arch

On clear days, the iconic stainless steel monument is visible as the flight crosses the Mississippi River.

🏔️

Southern Rocky Mountains

Expansive views of the snow-capped peaks of Colorado, including Pikes Peak if the route stays south.

🏜️

Canyonlands of Utah

Dramatic red rock formations and deep-carved river beds of the American Southwest.

💧

San Francisco Bay Salt Ponds

Vividly colored evaporation ponds in the South Bay during the final approach.

Choose the left side for morning departures to keep the sun at your back, providing better lighting for the Rockies. This side is also better for spotting the unique geography of the Colorado River basin and the southern Sierra Nevada range.

Top Activities in San Francisco
Route Information

Distance: 3,944 km (2,451 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 38 min

Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)

Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)

Route Type: Domestic

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