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SFO → BFL
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Meadows Field (Bakersfield)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the San Francisco Bay upon departure and provides a closer perspective of the Sierra Nevada foothills and the vast agricultural tapestry of the Central Valley during the descent.
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San Francisco Bay
Aerial views of the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge and the expansive wetlands of the southern bay immediately after takeoff.
Mount Hamilton
Spot the white domes of the Lick Observatory perched atop the highest peak in the Diablo Range.
San Luis Reservoir
A massive artificial lake nestled in the grassy hills of the Pacheco Pass, often showing striking turquoise water.
Central Valley Orchards
Geometric patterns of almond and citrus groves that define the agricultural heart of California.
Sierra Nevada Foothills
Distal views of the snow-capped high Sierra peaks transitioning into the rolling golden foothills near Bakersfield.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the Pacific sun. Watch for the San Luis Reservoir about 20 minutes into the flight; its water levels vary significantly by season, creating unique shoreline patterns. During the winter, the Sierra Nevada mountains to the east provide a stunning snow-covered backdrop.
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Silicon Valley
View the headquarters of major tech giants and the dense urban sprawl of Palo Alto, Mountain View, and San Jose.
Pacific Coast Ranges
The rugged terrain of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the distant shimmer of the Monterey Bay on exceptionally clear days.
Kettleman Hills
Unique geological folds and oil extraction sites located on the western edge of the San Joaquin Valley.
Kern River Oil Field
A dense forest of pumpjacks and industrial infrastructure north of Bakersfield, one of the largest oil fields in the US.
Bakersfield Skyline
A clear view of the downtown area and the winding Kern River as the plane turns for its final approach.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights, offering golden hour views over the coastal ranges. Keep an eye out for the California Aqueduct, a massive concrete river snaking through the valley floor. On the final approach into Meadows Field, look for the dense 'forest' of oil derricks which are particularly atmospheric in the late afternoon light.
Book Hotels in BakersfieldDistance: 383 km (238 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: BFL (35.43360138, -119.0569992)
Route Type: Domestic
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