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SFO → PDX
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Portland International Airport (Portland)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic peaks of the Cascade Range, including the massive Mount Shasta and an intimate view of Mount Hood during the descent into Portland.
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San Francisco Skyline
A clear view of the Salesforce Tower, the Transamerica Pyramid, and the Bay Bridge during climb-out.
Mount Shasta
The massive 14,179-foot snow-capped stratovolcano is the highlight of the mid-flight segment.
Crater Lake
The striking deep blue water of the caldera is often visible if the aircraft takes an inland airway.
Mount Hood
A spectacular and very close view of Oregon's highest peak during the arrival sequence into PDX.
Columbia River
The wide, winding river that marks the final approach into the Portland area.
The right side is significantly more scenic for this route. Sit here for the best views of the Cascade volcanoes. Morning flights offer the best lighting on the peaks, and try to secure a seat behind the wing to ensure your view of Mount Hood isn't obstructed during the descent.
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Golden Gate Bridge
Views of the iconic bridge and the Marin Headlands shortly after takeoff if the flight path tracks west.
Mendocino Coastline
The rugged and dramatic cliffs of Northern California where the mountains meet the Pacific.
Redwood National Park
Vast stretches of ancient evergreen forests visible as you cross the border into Oregon.
Coos Bay
The largest natural harbor on the Oregon coast, identifiable by its unique winding shape.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun reflecting off the Pacific Ocean. This side is ideal for spotting the marine layer fog as it hugs the coastline, though visibility is more weather-dependent than the mountain side.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 886 km (551 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)
Route Type: Domestic
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