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PDX destination photo
SNA destination photo

PDXSNA

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a spectacular front-row seat to the Cascade Volcanic Arc, including close-up views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Shasta, plus a dramatic descent over the San Gabriel and San Bernardino mountains into the Los Angeles Basin.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson

Immediately after departure from PDX, you will see the snow-capped peak of Mt. Hood followed by the jagged spire of Mt. Jefferson.

🌋

The Three Sisters

A trio of volcanic peaks near Bend, Oregon, offering a striking contrast against the high desert plateau.

🗻

Mt. Shasta

The massive, isolated stratovolcano in Northern California is a centerpiece of this route, often visible for a significant portion of the flight.

🌲

Sierra Nevada Range

As the flight progresses south, the high peaks of the Sierras stretch along the horizon to the east.

🏙️

San Bernardino Mountains

During the descent into SNA, you will fly past the rugged mountains bordering the Inland Empire and the LA Basin.

Book an early morning flight for the best lighting on the eastern volcanic peaks. Ensure your window is clear, as the proximity to Mt. Hood shortly after takeoff provides one of the best aerial photo opportunities in North America. In winter, these peaks are heavily glaciated and particularly photogenic.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌲

Willamette Valley

Rolling hills and lush vineyards of Oregon's premier wine country visible during the initial climb.

🌊

Pacific Coastline

On clear days, the distant blue of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Northern California coastline can be seen.

🌉

SF Bay Area

Depending on the flight path, you may catch a glimpse of the San Francisco Bay and the urban sprawl of Silicon Valley to the west.

🏖️

Orange County Coast

As the plane banks for the final approach into SNA, you will see Huntington Beach and the Newport Beach coastline.

🌴

Catalina Island

On the final descent, look further out to sea to spot the silhouette of Santa Catalina Island rising from the Pacific.

Choose the right side for sunset flights to witness the sun dipping into the Pacific Ocean. This side is also superior for the final 5 minutes of the flight, offering views of the iconic Southern California beaches during the turn for landing at John Wayne Airport.

Top Activities in Santa Ana
Route Information

Distance: 1,385 km (861 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 51 min

Departure: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)

Arrival: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)

Route Type: Domestic

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