Loading map...
SFO → AMS
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the high-latitude landscapes including the Greenland ice sheet and the best opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis during the flight's northern trajectory.
Search flights from SFO to AMS
San Francisco Bay
Breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz immediately after takeoff depending on runway departure.
Pacific Northwest Peaks
Aerial perspectives of the Cascades and the rugged Canadian Rockies during the initial hours of the flight.
Greenland Ice Sheet
Unparalleled views of massive glaciers, deep fjords, and the vast white expanse of the world's second-largest ice body.
Aurora Borealis
During winter months, this north-facing side offers the best chance to witness the Northern Lights over the Arctic.
Dutch Coastline
The final approach offers a clear view of the North Sea coastline and the intricate network of Dutch islands.
Book a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze when photographing Greenland. For overnight flights, keep your eyes peeled around 4-6 hours into the flight for the Aurora Borealis. Check the flight path on your monitor; if you are passing north of 60 degrees latitude, the views are exceptional.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for Netherlands
Great Basin & Rockies
Expansive views of the high deserts of Nevada and the towering peaks of the American Rockies.
North Atlantic Sunrise
As an eastbound overnight flight, the right side experiences a stunning sunrise over the ocean horizon.
British Isles
Glimpses of the UK mainland or the English Channel as the plane begins its descent into mainland Europe.
Polders and Windmills
The symmetrical agricultural patterns and reclaimed land of the Netherlands during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for passengers who enjoy watching the sunrise, which occurs quickly due to the aircraft's speed against the Earth's rotation. This side also tends to have less glare during the first half of the journey if it is a daytime departure.
Book Hotels in AmsterdamDistance: 8,786 km (5,459 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 20 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.