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GDL → SFO
Which side of the plane to sit from Don Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla International Airport (Guadalajara) to San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Baja California coastline, the shimmering Gulf of California, and a more direct view of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge during standard northern approaches into SFO.
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Gulf of California
Vibrant turquoise waters and desert islands of the Sea of Cortez shortly after takeoff.
Baja California Peninsula
The rugged, mountainous spine of the peninsula contrasting with the deep blue Pacific Ocean.
Salton Sea
California's largest, landlocked lake visible as a massive blue patch in the Colorado Desert.
Silicon Valley
Aerial views of major tech campuses like Apple Park and the dense urban sprawl of the South Bay.
San Francisco Skyline
On clear days during the descent, the city's iconic skyscrapers and the Golden Gate Bridge are visible to the west.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun while enjoying perfectly lit views of the Mexican coastline. Seats forward of the wing are best for unobstructed photos of the San Francisco Bay entrance. Look out for the distinct salt ponds near San Jose which display vibrant red and orange hues.
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Sierra Madre Occidental
Dramatic views of high-altitude peaks and deep canyons in Western Mexico.
Sonoran Desert
Vast expanses of arid landscapes and volcanic fields stretching across the US-Mexico border.
Central Valley
The intricate, geometric patchwork of California's agricultural heartland.
Santa Cruz Mountains
Lush, redwood-covered ridges as the plane begins its final descent into the Bay Area.
Mount Diablo
A prominent peak and landmark of the East Bay visible during the base leg of the approach.
The right side is excellent for viewing the dramatic contrast between the desert and the irrigated farmland of California. On afternoon flights, the sun will be on the left, giving the right side a more comfortable, glare-free viewing experience. Keep an eye out for the Sierra Nevada mountain range far to the east during mid-flight.
Book Hotels in San FranciscoDistance: 2,644 km (1,643 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 32 min
Departure: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)
Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Route Type: International
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