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SFO → HKG
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Hong Kong International Airport (Hong Kong)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is premier for this route, offering iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge upon departure, the rare opportunity to see the volcanic peaks of the Kamchatka Peninsula, and a stunning view of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge during descent.
Search flights from SFO to HKG
Golden Gate Bridge
If taking off from Runway 28, you'll get a spectacular view of the bridge and the Marin Headlands as the plane turns west.
Kamchatka Volcanoes
On clear days, see the snow-capped, smoking peaks of the Russian Far East as you track along the 'Ring of Fire'.
Hokkaido Coastline
Rugged cliffs and the mountainous northern territory of Japan are often visible as the flight enters Asian airspace.
Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge
The world's longest sea-crossing bridge is clearly visible stretching across the Pearl River Delta during descent.
Macau Skyline
Glimpse the glittering casinos and the Macau Tower as the aircraft maneuvers toward Lantau Island.
The right side (Starboard) is the 'scenery side.' Be sure to have your camera ready about 7-9 hours into the flight for the Russian coastline. During descent into HKG, keep your window shade open to spot the massive bridge infrastructure. Note that westward flights are long; use an app like FlightRadar24 to check if your specific flight number typically tracks over land or remains further out at sea.
Book Hotels in Hong KongSan Francisco Peninsula
Bird's-eye view of the city's dense urban grid and the San Mateo Bridge shortly after takeoff.
Central Pacific Vistas
Vast, meditative views of the deep blue ocean and complex weather systems midway through the journey.
Lamma Island
Lush green hills and the distinct three chimneys of the Lamma Power Station during the final approach.
South China Sea Shipping
A massive fleet of cargo ships and tankers anchored in the waters surrounding Hong Kong.
The left side (Port) is excellent for avoiding direct solar glare on this westward flight, as the sun will primarily stay on the southern side of the aircraft. This side is also preferred for seeing the San Francisco skyline if the flight departs toward the north before banking west. For landing, it offers a great perspective of the outlying islands.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for Hong KongDistance: 11,128 km (6,915 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 6 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: HKG (22.308901, 113.915001)
Route Type: International
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