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CUN → SFO
Which side of the plane to sit from Cancún International Airport (Cancun) to San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the iconic departure view of Cancun's Hotel Zone and a spectacular approach into San Francisco, often featuring the city skyline and the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Cancun Hotel Zone
The famous '7' shaped strip of white sand and turquoise water is usually visible shortly after departure.
Mississippi Delta
On more northerly routes, witness the intricate winding patterns of the Mississippi River entering the Gulf.
Sedona & Red Rocks
Stunning views of the vibrant red sandstone formations and canyons of Northern Arizona.
High Sierra Peaks
Unmatched views of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada, including potential glimpses of Yosemite National Park.
San Francisco Skyline
If the flight approaches from the north or loops around, this side offers the best view of the City and the Golden Gate.
The right side is the 'scenic side' for this route. For the best experience, choose a morning or midday flight to see the desert colors in high definition. During the final 30 minutes of the flight, keep your camera ready for the Sierra Nevada peaks and the iconic San Francisco Bay transit. Be aware that fog (Karl the Fog) can frequently obscure SFO views in the late afternoon.
Caribbean Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Caribbean Sea immediately after takeoff from the Yucatan Peninsula.
Chihuahuan Desert
Dramatic views of the rugged, arid landscapes of Northern Mexico and the Southern Texas border region.
Sonoran Landscapes
Aerial perspective of the vast desert basins and isolated mountain ranges across Southern Arizona.
Southern Sierras
Views of the southern tail of the Sierra Nevada mountains as the flight enters California airspace.
Silicon Valley
Clear views of San Jose and the tech hubs of the South Bay during the standard approach into SFO.
Sit on the left if you want to avoid direct afternoon sun glare when flying westbound. This side is better for viewing the southern portion of the San Francisco Bay and the Santa Cruz mountains during descent. Ensure you have a window seat behind the wing to see the complex desert topography without obstruction.
Distance: 3,871 km (2,405 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 33 min
Departure: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Route Type: International
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