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SFO destination photo
PEK destination photo

SFOPEK

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is superior on this route as it typically offers spectacular views of the volcanic Kamchatka Peninsula and the rugged Aleutian Islands during the great circle crossing.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🌉

Golden Gate Bridge

Depending on the departure runway, you may get a stunning view of the bridge and the Marin Headlands.

🌋

Aleutian Islands

A chain of volcanic peaks stretching across the North Pacific, often visible if the route is northerly.

🏔️

Kamchatka Peninsula

A world-class highlight featuring the snow-capped volcanoes and wild river valleys of the Russian Far East.

🌲

Siberian Taiga

Endless stretches of dense evergreen forests and frozen lakes as the flight crosses into Northern Asia.

🧱

The Great Wall

On clear days, the rugged sections of the wall in the mountains north of Beijing can be spotted during descent.

🌄

Yanshan Mountains

The dramatic jagged peaks that surround the Beijing basin, providing a scenic backdrop for landing.

The right side offers the best geographic landmarks. Monitor your flight map; the Kamchatka volcanoes are best seen about 7-9 hours into the flight. For the Great Wall, look out during the descent when the plane turns south toward the airport. Flights usually depart SFO in the morning, making the right side better for avoiding direct sunlight while flying west.

Left Side Highlights
5.2
🏙️

San Francisco Skyline

Aerial views of the Financial District and the Bay Bridge immediately after takeoff from SFO.

🌊

North Pacific Expanse

Vast stretches of deep blue ocean and dramatic weather fronts as you cross the International Date Line.

🚢

Bohai Sea

The approach into Beijing often reveals massive shipping lanes and cargo vessels in the Bohai Gulf.

🏗️

Tianjin Hub

Dense industrial landscapes and high-rise developments near the port city of Tianjin during descent.

🛫

Beijing Capital Approach

A view of the sprawling suburbs and the massive Terminal 3 during the final landing sequence.

The left side is mostly dominated by ocean views for the middle 80% of the flight. It is best during the initial ascent for San Francisco views and the final 30 minutes of the flight for urban scenery. Use a window shade to mitigate the harsh southern sun during the Pacific crossing.

Top Activities in Beijing
Route Information

Distance: 9,494 km (5,899 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 hrs 10 min

Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)

Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)

Route Type: International

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