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MLM destination photo
SFO destination photo

MLMSFO

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides stunning views of the Western Sierra Madre, the Salton Sea, and the iconic San Francisco skyline and Pacific coastline during the final descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Sierra Madre Occidental

The rugged, deep canyons and jagged peaks of Western Mexico shortly after takeoff.

🌵

Sonoran Desert

Vast stretches of arid landscapes and unique geological formations as you cross the US-Mexico border.

🌊

Salton Sea

A massive, shimmering inland saline lake located in the California desert.

🏙️

San Francisco Skyline

A breathtaking view of the Financial District and Salesforce Tower on the final approach into SFO.

🌉

Golden Gate Bridge

Depending on the wind-dependent landing pattern, a distant view of the world-famous bridge.

For afternoon flights, sitting on the left side avoids the harsh glare of the setting sun. Immediately after takeoff from Morelia, look down for a quick view of Lake Cuitzeo. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the steep turn over the San Mateo Bridge.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏜️

Chihuahuan High Plateau

Expansive, high-altitude desert plains visible through Northern Mexico.

🏔️

High Sierra

The snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains, potentially including views near Yosemite.

🚜

Central Valley

The massive, colorful patchwork of California's agricultural heartland.

💻

Silicon Valley

Bird's eye view of the tech corridor, including the distinctive circular Apple Park 'Spaceship' campus.

🚢

Oakland Port

Massive shipping containers and cranes visible as the plane lines up for the runway over the bay.

Choose the right side if you enjoy seeing high-altitude alpine terrain and the geometric beauty of the Central Valley. Watch for the stark contrast between the Mojave Desert and the lush California valleys. For night flights, the right side offers better views of the sprawling East Bay lights.

Top Activities in San Francisco
Route Information

Distance: 2,856 km (1,775 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 48 min

Departure: MLM (19.849899292, -101.025001526)

Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)

Route Type: International

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