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SFO destination photo
CVG destination photo

SFOCVG

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most reliable views of major landmarks, including Lake Tahoe, the Great Salt Lake, and the Cincinnati skyline during the final approach over the Ohio River.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌉

San Francisco Bay

Aerial views of the Bay Bridge, Alcatraz, and the North Bay marshes immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Lake Tahoe

The deep blue waters of this massive alpine lake are usually visible about 30 minutes into the flight.

🧂

Great Salt Lake

Observe the distinct color shifts and expansive salt flats as you pass over northern Utah.

🏙️

Indianapolis

Clear views of the 'Circle City' and its grid-like urban layout during the midwest transit.

🏙️

Cincinnati Skyline

On a western approach, enjoy a dramatic view of downtown Cincinnati and the Ohio River bridges.

Sit on the left side (Seat A) for the best chance to see Lake Tahoe. Since this is an eastbound flight, the sun will be to the south (right side), meaning the left side will have less glare and better lighting for photography throughout the day.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
⛰️

Yosemite National Park

Look south to spot the jagged granite peaks of the High Sierra and the Yosemite Valley area.

🏜️

Great Basin Desert

The 'Basin and Range' province of Nevada creates a striking corrugated appearance from above.

🏔️

Colorado Rockies

Spectacular views of the central Rocky Mountain range, often snow-capped well into the summer.

🌊

Missouri River

The wide, meandering curves of the Missouri River provide a geographic marker for the Great Plains.

🐎

Bluegrass Country

Lush green rolling hills and horse farms of Northern Kentucky appear during the descent.

The right side (Seat F) is excellent for mountain enthusiasts wanting to spot Yosemite and the highest peaks of the Colorado Rockies. Be aware that the sun will be shining directly into these windows for much of the day on this eastbound route.

Top Activities in Cincinnati
Route Information

Distance: 3,269 km (2,031 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 51 min

Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)

Arrival: CVG (39.0488014221, -84.6678009033)

Route Type: Domestic

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