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SAN → SDF
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Louisville International Standiford Field (Louisville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the dramatic transition from the California coast through the high-altitude peaks of Northern Arizona and the colorful Painted Desert, ending with a scenic approach over the Ohio River.
Search flights from SAN to SDF
San Diego Skyline
Aerial views of downtown San Diego, Balboa Park, and the harbor during the initial climb and turn.
Laguna Mountains
The rugged transition from the coastal basin into the high desert of Southern California.
San Francisco Peaks
High-altitude dormant volcanoes near Flagstaff, Arizona, often capped with snow.
Painted Desert
Vividly colored sedimentary layers across the Four Corners region of the Southwest.
Mississippi River
The grand crossing of the nation's largest river system near the Missouri-Tennessee border.
Ohio River Valley
Winding river views that mark the final approach into the Louisville metropolitan area.
Choose the left side for better lighting on morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. On the climb out of SAN, the left side usually catches a great view of the city as the plane banks east. Keep an eye out for the reddish hues of the Painted Desert about 60-90 minutes into the flight.
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Coronado Island
Stunning views of the Hotel del Coronado and the Silver Strand immediately after takeoff.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering saline lake in the middle of the California desert.
Sonoran Desert
Expansive vistas of the Arizona desert, featuring distinct craggy mountain ranges.
Ozark National Forest
Densely forested rolling hills and plateaus across Arkansas and southern Missouri.
Churchill Downs
The legendary home of the Kentucky Derby, visible on the southern approach to SDF.
Bluegrass Country
The lush, green horse farm landscapes characteristic of the Kentucky region.
The right side is ideal for sunset views on late afternoon departures. It offers a unique perspective of the US-Mexico border region during the first hour. If the flight arrives from the south, this side provides the best chance to spot the twin spires of Churchill Downs.
Book Hotels in LouisvilleDistance: 2,898 km (1,801 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 52 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: SDF (38.1744, -85.736)
Route Type: Domestic
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