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SFO → GDL
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Don Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla International Airport (Guadalajara)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic Pacific coastline, the Channel Islands, and a stunning aerial approach past Lake Chapala.
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California Coastline
Spectacular views of the Big Sur coast and the sparkling Pacific Ocean shortly after take-off.
Channel Islands
The rugged silhouettes of Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa islands off the coast of Southern California.
Sea of Cortez
The deep blue waters of the Gulf of California with the Baja Peninsula visible on the far horizon.
Sinaloa Wetlands
Intricate patterns of coastal lagoons and river mouths along the western coast of mainland Mexico.
Lake Chapala
Mexico's largest freshwater lake provides a stunning landmark during the descent into the Jalisco region.
The right side is the 'scenic' choice for this route. For the best experience, try to book a seat ahead of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of Lake Chapala during descent. Afternoon flights provide excellent lighting for the coastal segments, though the sun will be on this side.
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San Francisco Bay
Aerial views of the East Bay hills and the urban density of the Silicon Valley corridor during departure.
Sierra Nevada Range
On clear days, the distant snow-capped peaks of the high Sierras are visible to the east.
Sonoran Desert
Vast stretches of arid landscapes featuring unique geological formations as you cross into Mexico.
Sierra Madre Occidental
Rugged mountain terrain and deep canyons that define the interior of western Mexico.
Guadalajara Metro
The expansive sprawl of the Guadalajara metropolitan area as the plane aligns for its final approach.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. This side is better for seeing the geometric patterns of California's Central Valley agriculture and the high desert plateaus of northern Mexico. Look for the Salton Sea shortly before crossing the border.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for MexicoDistance: 2,644 km (1,643 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 32 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)
Route Type: International
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