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HNL → SJC
Which side of the plane to sit from Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu) to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most iconic views of the Hawaiian coastline upon departure, including Diamond Head, and offers a superior perspective of the San Francisco Peninsula and Silicon Valley during the approach into San Jose.
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Diamond Head Crater
A stunning aerial view of Hawaii's most famous volcanic landmark shortly after takeoff from HNL.
Waikiki Shoreline
The turquoise waters and white sands of Waikiki Beach visible during the initial climb out of Oahu.
Mid-Pacific Vastness
Thousands of miles of deep blue ocean, occasionally revealing remote shipping lanes or cloud formations.
Santa Cruz Mountains
Dense redwood forests and rugged ridges as the aircraft crosses the California coastline.
Silicon Valley Campuses
High-altitude views of major tech headquarters located in Palo Alto, Mountain View, and Sunnyvale.
Sit on the left for the classic departure view of Diamond Head. During arrival, if the flight approaches from the north, you will see the San Francisco Peninsula. Opt for a morning flight for the best lighting on the Hawaiian islands, and try to sit forward of the wing for an unobstructed view of the coastline.
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Pearl Harbor
Views of the historic naval base and the USS Arizona Memorial if the flight path turns west after takeoff.
Pacific Fog Bank
The dramatic marine layer often seen hugging the California coast as you transition from ocean to land.
Mount Hamilton
Home to the Lick Observatory, this peak dominates the horizon to the east during the final descent.
South Bay Salt Ponds
Vibrant, multicolored evaporation ponds near the southern tip of the San Francisco Bay.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the Pacific. On approach to SJC, the right side offers a great view of the Diablo Range and the eastern foothills of San Jose. Watch for the colorful salt ponds just before landing.
Book Hotels in San JoseDistance: 3,886 km (2,415 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 34 min
Departure: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)
Arrival: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Route Type: Domestic
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