Loading map...
MEX → SFO
Which side of the plane to sit from Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City) to San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior urban perspective of Mexico City upon departure and the iconic aerial panorama of the San Francisco Bay and city skyline during the final approach.
Mexico City Sprawl
Experience the immense scale of one of the world's largest cities as the plane climbs out of the valley.
Sonoran Desert
Observe the golden sands, jagged rock formations, and dry lake beds of the northern Mexican and southern US deserts.
Salton Sea
Spot California's largest lake, a shimmering saline body of water located in the Colorado Desert.
San Francisco Bay
As the plane banks for arrival, enjoy sweeping views of the Bay Bridge and the vibrant activity of the East Bay ports.
SF Skyline
The final approach often provides a stunning view of the Transamerica Pyramid, Salesforce Tower, and the dense downtown core.
The right side is essential for the classic SFO arrival experience. Most flights approach from the southeast over the bay, placing the San Francisco skyline and the Bay Bridge directly in your field of vision. Afternoon flights on this side benefit from the sun being positioned behind the aircraft, perfect for photography.
Volcanic Giants
On clear days shortly after takeoff, catch a glimpse of the massive Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes to the southeast.
Sierra Madre Occidental
View the rugged, deep canyons and high-altitude ridges of Mexico's western mountain spine.
Gulf of California
Look for the striking contrast between the deep blue waters of the Sea of Cortez and the arid Baja desert coastline.
Central Valley
The San Joaquin Valley displays a vast patchwork of agricultural fields and complex irrigation systems.
Silicon Valley
During the descent, identify the tech hubs of San Jose, Palo Alto, and the circular Apple Park campus.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and for a chance to see the Gulf of California. Keep your window shade open during the first 20 minutes to spot the volcanoes looming over the Valley of Mexico.
Distance: 3,028 km (1,882 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 34 min
Departure: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.