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SAN → SJC
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a premier view of the California coastline, offering dramatic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, the Channel Islands, and the scenic Monterey Bay during the approach.
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Pacific Coastline
Uninterrupted views of the blue Pacific as the plane tracks north along the coast.
Channel Islands
Spot Santa Cruz and Anacapa Islands dotting the ocean surface shortly after departure.
Santa Barbara Coast
The narrow strip of land where the Santa Ynez Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean.
Big Sur
Rugged cliffs and the famous Highway 1 winding along the coastal edge.
Monterey Bay
The iconic crescent-shaped bay becomes clearly visible as the aircraft begins its descent.
Choose the left side for sunset flights to witness the sun dipping into the Pacific. During the winter months, look for whitecaps and occasional whale migrations visible from lower altitudes during the climb and descent phases. This side also avoids direct southern sun glare during midday flights.
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San Diego Skyline
Immediate views of downtown San Diego and Balboa Park if departing on Runway 27.
Los Angeles Basin
A massive expanse of urban sprawl bordered by the San Gabriel Mountains.
Tehachapi Mountains
The rugged mountain range that marks the transition from Southern to Central California.
Central Valley
The geometric, multi-colored patchwork of California's primary agricultural hub.
Silicon Valley
The sprawling tech campuses and the rolling hills of the Diablo Range upon arrival.
The right side is superior for night flights, providing a spectacular light show of the Los Angeles metro area and the South Bay. In the spring, the hills of the Diablo Range are vibrant green, offering a beautiful contrast to the urban landscape of San Jose.
Book Hotels in San JoseDistance: 671 km (417 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Route Type: Domestic
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