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SFO → OGG
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Kahului Airport (Kahului)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic departure views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline, followed by a dramatic approach along Maui's rugged north coast.
San Francisco Skyline
Direct views of the Transamerica Pyramid, Salesforce Tower, and the dense downtown core upon takeoff.
Golden Gate Bridge
The quintessential aerial view of the bridge, Alcatraz, and the Marin Headlands as the plane turns westward.
Farallon Islands
The rugged, remote rock formations of the National Wildlife Refuge located 30 miles off the California coast.
Maui North Shore
Vibrant turquoise waters and famous surf breaks like Jaws and Ho'okipa Beach visible during the final approach.
Molokai Cliffs
Distant views of the world's highest sea cliffs on the neighboring island of Molokai just before landing.
The right side is the 'money shot' for departures from SFO. Sit in front of the wing to avoid engine obstruction of the Golden Gate Bridge. In the morning, this side avoids the direct glare of the sun, making for better photos of the Maui coastline and the lush cliffs of the windward side.
SF Peninsula
Aerial perspectives of the San Mateo Bridge and the sprawling Silicon Valley landscape during the initial climb.
Pacific Expanse
Hours of deep blue ocean views which are particularly stunning during golden hour flights.
Haleakala Summit
A massive close-up view of Maui's dormant volcano and its cinder cones as the plane descends into Kahului.
Big Island Distant Peaks
On clear days, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa's summits are visible peeking through the clouds to the south.
Choose this side if you are flying in the late afternoon to witness a spectacular Pacific sunset. During descent, look south to spot the silhouettes of Hawaii Island and Lanai. This side often provides a more direct view of the massive Haleakala crater on the standard arrival path.
Distance: 3,760 km (2,336 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 25 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: OGG (20.8986, -156.429993)
Route Type: Domestic
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