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PDX → OAK
Which side of the plane to sit from Portland International Airport (Portland) to Metropolitan Oakland International Airport (Oakland)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled 'Volcano Alley' experience, featuring front-row seats to the majestic peaks of the Cascade Range, including a close-up of Mount Hood and the massive Mount Shasta.
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Mount Hood
Immediately after departure, witness the iconic snow-capped peak of Oregon's highest mountain rising dramatically from the landscape.
The Three Sisters
A stunning trio of volcanic peaks (North, Middle, and South Sister) visible as you traverse the length of the Oregon Cascades.
Crater Lake
On clear days, look down to see the deep, sapphire-blue waters of America's deepest lake nestled within its volcanic caldera.
Mount Shasta
A truly massive, 14,179-foot stratovolcano that dominates the horizon for a significant portion of the flight over Northern California.
Lassen Peak
The world's largest plug dome volcano, marking the southern end of the Cascade Range before the descent into the Central Valley.
Sit in a window seat well forward or aft of the wing to ensure unobstructed views of the volcanoes. Morning flights are ideal for the left side as the rising sun illuminates the eastern faces of the mountains. During winter, the snow cover on the peaks is most dramatic, but check the weather for cloud cover which can frequently obscure the Cascades.
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Coast Range
Dense evergreen forests of the Oregon and California coastal mountains stretching toward the Pacific Ocean.
Pacific Coastline
Glimpses of the rugged shoreline and crashing waves, particularly near the Oregon-California border.
Napa & Sonoma Valleys
The intricate geometric patterns of world-famous vineyards appearing as you descend into the Bay Area.
San Francisco Bay
Breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge (in the distance), and the Bay Bridge during the final approach.
Port of Oakland
The massive shipping cranes and industrial activity of the East Bay just moments before touchdown.
Choose the right side for spectacular sunset views over the Pacific Ocean on late afternoon flights. This side is also superior for spotting the San Francisco skyline and the bay's iconic bridges if the flight follows the standard arrival path from the northwest. Keep an eye out for 'The Fog' rolling through the Golden Gate during summer months.
Book Hotels in OaklandDistance: 875 km (544 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min
Departure: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)
Arrival: OAK (37.721298, -122.221001)
Route Type: Domestic
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