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SFO → MOD
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Modesto City Co-Harry Sham Field (Modesto)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the iconic San Francisco skyline during departure, a head-on look at the majestic Mount Diablo, and the intricate, shimmering waterways of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta.
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San Francisco Skyline
Aerial perspective of the Financial District, Salesforce Tower, and the Bay Bridge immediately after takeoff from SFO.
Mount Diablo
A prominent 3,849-foot peak that serves as a landmark for the entire East Bay region.
The Delta
The complex maze of islands and channels where the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers converge.
Caswell Memorial State Park
A rare remaining example of the oak riparian forest that once covered the Central Valley.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the San Francisco city center. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the Delta waterways and Mount Diablo without glare. If the flight path departs north before turning east, the city view is spectacular.
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San Mateo Bridge
The longest bridge in California, stretching across the narrowest part of the lower San Francisco Bay.
Altamont Pass
Thousands of wind turbines dotting the rolling golden hills between Livermore and the Central Valley.
Central Valley Orchards
Vast, perfectly geometric grids of almond and walnut trees that define the Modesto landscape.
Tuolumne River
The winding river that flows from the Sierras through the heart of Modesto's agricultural zone.
The right side is best for viewing the massive wind farms of the Altamont Pass. During late winter (February), look down for the 'snow-like' white blossoms of the almond orchards. Afternoon flights on this side may experience significant sun glare when flying eastward.
Book Hotels in ModestoDistance: 125 km (78 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: MOD (37.62580109, -120.9540024)
Route Type: Domestic
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