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ONT → SFO
Which side of the plane to sit from Ontario International Airport (Ontario) to San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers an exceptional vantage point for the dramatic San Gabriel Mountains immediately after takeoff and provides the iconic aerial view of the San Francisco Bay and East Bay hills during the descent into SFO.
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San Gabriel Mountains
Dramatic, close-up views of the rugged peaks directly north of Ontario during the initial climb.
Mojave Edge
The stark transition from the urban basin to the arid landscapes of the high desert.
San Joaquin Valley
The vast, geometric patchwork of California’s agricultural heartland stretching to the horizon.
Sierra Nevada Range
On clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the high Sierras are visible far to the east.
San Francisco Bay
Sweeping views of the San Mateo Bridge, the salt ponds, and the East Bay hills during final approach.
The right side is generally better for avoiding direct sun glare on morning flights. Keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of the flight; the approach over the San Francisco Bay salt ponds offers vibrant colors and great views of the Dumbarton and San Mateo bridges. Look for the Tehachapi Pass wind farms during the mid-portion of the flight.
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Los Angeles Basin
Expansive urban views of the Inland Empire and the western LA sprawl shortly after departure.
Central Coastline
Distance views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged terrain of the Santa Lucia Range.
Monterey Bay
The distinctive crescent shape of the Monterey Bay coastline is visible during the mid-flight transition.
Santa Cruz Mountains
Densely forested ridges that mark the southern entry into the San Francisco Peninsula area.
Silicon Valley
Aerial perspectives of major tech campuses and the dense suburban landscape of the Peninsula.
Choose the left side for spectacular sunset views over the Pacific Ocean on evening flights. On a clear day, you can spot the headquarters of major tech giants as you fly over the 101 corridor towards SFO. If the flight approaches from the north (less common for this route), you might catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 585 km (364 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 59 min
Departure: ONT (34.05599975585937, -117.60099792480467)
Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Route Type: Domestic
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