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SAL → SFO
Which side of the plane to sit from Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (San Salvador) to San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled vantage point for the dramatic transition from the Central American coast to the rugged Baja Peninsula and the iconic San Francisco skyline during the final approach.
Salvadoran Volcanoes
Aerial views of the San Salvador and Izalco volcanoes immediately after departure.
Mexican Riviera
Continuous views of the Pacific coastline as the flight traverses the edge of Chiapas and Oaxaca.
Baja California Peninsula
Deep blue waters contrasting with the arid, mountainous desert of the Baja peninsula.
Big Sur Coastline
Dramatic cliffs and crashing waves along the California coast as you head north.
Golden Gate & SF Skyline
The quintessential view of the San Francisco city center and the Golden Gate Bridge on most landing patterns.
Book a window seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine glare. On afternoon flights, the left side will experience direct sunlight; however, it provides the most iconic views of the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific sunset. For the best chance to see the Golden Gate Bridge, pray for a clear day as Karl the Fog often blankets the coast.
Guatemalan Highlands
Distances views of the towering Fuego and Acatenango volcanoes near the border.
Sierra Madre del Sur
Rugged and jagged mountain ranges stretching through southern and central Mexico.
Guadalajara Metro Area
The massive urban footprint of one of Mexico's largest metropolitan centers.
Sonoran Desert
A vast expanse of sandy plains and unique geological formations in northern Mexico.
Silicon Valley
A view of the high-tech hub and the rolling Diablo Range mountains during descent.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the harsh sun. It offers better views of the inland Mexican mountain ranges and the sprawl of the Central Valley. During the SFO landing, you will likely see the East Bay, including Oakland and the salt ponds of the South Bay, which feature vibrant, otherworldly colors.
Distance: 4,250 km (2,641 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs
Departure: SAL (13.4409, -89.055702)
Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Route Type: International
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