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EWR → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Newark Liberty International Airport (Newark) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior experience, particularly for the iconic 'urban canyon' approach into San Diego where you fly level with downtown skyscrapers.
Manhattan Skyline
Dramatic views of the New York City skyline and the Hudson River immediately following takeoff from EWR.
Gateway Arch
The silver curve of the St. Louis Arch is often visible as the flight crosses the Mississippi River.
Southern Rockies
Expansive views of the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Colorado and New Mexico Rocky Mountains.
Grand Canyon
Look for the sprawling red rock formations and deep carvings of the Grand Canyon's South Rim.
San Diego Skyline
A legendary aviation view; you pass incredibly close to the downtown high-rises and Balboa Park on final approach.
San Diego Bay
Views of the naval fleet and Coronado Bridge just before the wheels touch the tarmac.
Book an 'A' window seat for the most dramatic arrival. On westbound flights, the left side remains in the shade during the midday hours, making it easier to take photos without window glare. For evening flights, you may catch a sunset over the Pacific during the final turn.
Appalachian Ridges
The distinct folded mountain ridges of Pennsylvania and West Virginia are visible early in the journey.
Great Plains
Intricate geometric patterns of center-pivot irrigation circles across Kansas and the Midwest.
Mojave Desert
The stark, alien-like landscapes of the California desert and the San Bernardino Mountains.
Salton Sea
The massive, shimmering expanse of California's largest inland lake surrounded by desert sand.
Point Loma
During the final banking maneuver, you can see the rugged coastline of Point Loma and the Pacific Ocean.
The right side is ideal for seeing the northern stretch of the Mojave Desert and the Salton Sea. Be aware that on afternoon westbound flights, the sun will be on this side of the aircraft, which can lead to significant cabin heat and screen glare.
Distance: 3,895 km (2,420 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 35 min
Departure: EWR (40.69250106811523, -74.168701171875)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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