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SFO → DFW
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (Dallas-Fort Worth)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior sequence of iconic landmarks, including Yosemite's granite peaks, the vibrant hues of the desert Southwest, and a high-probability view of the Dallas skyline during the final descent.
Silicon Valley
Aerial views of the South Bay, including the Stanford campus and the tech hubs of Palo Alto and San Jose.
Yosemite National Park
Look for the distinct granite formations of Half Dome and El Capitan as the flight crosses the High Sierra.
Lake Powell
The striking contrast of bright blue water against the winding red rock canyons of the Glen Canyon area.
Painted Desert
Vibrant layers of siltstone and shale providing a colorful display across the Northern Arizona and New Mexico border.
Dallas Skyline
On the standard 'Regional South' arrival, passengers get a clear view of downtown Dallas and the Reunion Tower.
The right side is essential for seeing Yosemite's peaks. During the middle of the flight, the sun will be to the south, which can cause glare; however, this lighting creates deep shadows that emphasize the textures of the desert canyons. Afternoon flights offer the best 'golden hour' glow over the Texas plains.
San Francisco Bay
Dramatic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the city skyline immediately following a northward departure.
Lake Tahoe
The deep blue waters of North America's largest alpine lake are visible nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Great Basin Desert
Geometric patterns and dry lake beds across Nevada, showcasing the 'Basin and Range' topography.
Southern Rockies
The snow-capped peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains as the flight crosses into New Mexico.
Texas Panhandle
The transition into the Great Plains, characterized by vast agricultural circles and wind farms.
Sit on the left to capture Lake Tahoe approximately 20-30 minutes after takeoff. This side is also ideal for avoiding direct sunlight and glare during the eastbound journey, which preserves color saturation for photography of the mountain ranges.
Distance: 2,352 km (1,461 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 8 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: DFW (32.896801, -97.038002)
Route Type: Domestic
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