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HKG → SFO
Which side of the plane to sit from Hong Kong International Airport (Hong Kong) to San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco)?
Right Side of the Plane
While the left side offers potential views of the Japanese archipelago and Aleutian Islands, the right side is superior for the iconic approach into San Francisco, featuring the Golden Gate Bridge and the city skyline, along with a spectacular mid-flight sunrise.
Accelerated Sunrise
Flying east against the earth's rotation causes a rapid, vibrant sunrise over the Pacific horizon.
North Pacific Expanse
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue ocean, perfect for spotting cloud formations and the International Date Line transition.
Golden Gate Bridge
On the standard 'Point Reyes' arrival, the right side offers a world-class view of the bridge and the Marin Headlands.
San Francisco Skyline
A clear view of the Salesforce Tower, Transamerica Pyramid, and the Bay Bridge during the descent into SFO.
Parallel Approach
SFO is famous for side-by-side landings; you may see another aircraft descending right alongside you over the bay.
The right side is the 'money' side for the arrival. Most flights from HKG arrive in the late morning or early afternoon; the sun will be high, providing excellent lighting for photos of the San Francisco Bay. For the best chance to see the Golden Gate Bridge, pray for a clear day without the famous 'Karl the Fog' obscuring the entrance to the bay.
Pearl River Delta
Aerial views of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and the dense urban sprawl of the delta shortly after departure.
Taiwanese Highlands
The rugged Central Mountain Range of Taiwan is often visible on the northern track out of Hong Kong.
Kanto Region
Vast views of the Tokyo metropolitan area and the Japanese coastline during the first third of the journey.
Aleutian Chain
If taking a high-latitude Great Circle route, look out for the remote, volcanic islands of southwestern Alaska.
Point Reyes National Seashore
The dramatic, rocky coastline and lighthouse of Northern California as the plane begins its final descent.
The left side is ideal for passengers who enjoy tracking landmasses. Keep your eyes peeled about 3-4 hours in for views of Japan. If the flight path stays north, the Aleutian Islands offer rare, desolate beauty. However, be aware that the sun will be on the opposite side, making this the 'shaded' side for much of the cruise.
Distance: 11,128 km (6,915 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 6 min
Departure: HKG (22.308901, 113.915001)
Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Route Type: International
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