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COS → SFO
Which side of the plane to sit from City of Colorado Springs Municipal Airport (Colorado Springs) to San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides superior views of the Great Salt Lake's vibrant colors, the expansive beauty of Lake Tahoe, and typically offers a more scenic approach into SFO with views of the San Francisco city skyline and the Bay Bridge.
Front Range
A panoramic view of the Rocky Mountains stretching north toward the Wyoming border.
Great Salt Lake
Dramatic color contrasts between the water and the white salt flats of the Great Basin.
Lake Tahoe
The deep blue jewel of the Sierra Nevada mountains, often visible as the flight moves into California.
Napa & Sonoma Valleys
The geometric patterns of California's most famous vineyards as the plane begins its descent.
San Francisco Bay
Breathtaking views of the Bay Bridge, the city skyline, and Alcatraz during the standard SFO approach.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct sun. For the most iconic arrival, choose the right side as planes usually fly north of the airport and turn left to land, offering a full view of the city and bridge.
Pikes Peak
Unmatched views of Colorado's most famous 'Fourteener' immediately after takeoff from COS.
Utah Red Rocks
Aerial perspectives of the rugged canyonlands and desert plateaus of Southern Utah.
Mono Lake
The ancient saline soda lake located in the high desert, visible just before crossing the Sierra crest.
Yosemite Wilderness
Views of the high granite peaks and rugged southern wilderness of the Sierra Nevada range.
Silicon Valley
During the final descent, look for the sprawling tech campuses and colorful salt ponds of the South Bay.
Sit on the left for the best morning light on the mountains without glare. Keep your camera ready immediately at takeoff as Pikes Peak will be very close. In winter, this side offers great views of the snow-covered southern Sierras.
Distance: 1,547 km (961 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 4 min
Departure: COS (38.805801, -104.700996)
Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Route Type: Domestic
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