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SFO → PIT
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Pittsburgh International Airport (Pittsburgh)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic geological transitions from the High Sierra peaks and Utah's red rock canyons to the jagged Colorado Rockies.
Yosemite National Park
Stunning aerial views of Half Dome and the high-altitude granite wilderness of the central Sierras.
Canyonlands & Arches
The striking red sandstone formations and deep river-carved canyons of eastern Utah.
Colorado Rockies
A breathtaking crossing of the highest peaks in the continental US, including the Front Range near Denver.
Mississippi River
The massive, winding waterway that marks the transition into the eastern United States.
Ohio River Valley
The lush, rolling hills and winding river paths that lead directly into the Pittsburgh approach.
The right side is ideal for photographers wanting to capture the iconic 'Red Rock' formations of the Southwest. Be aware of midday glare on southern-facing windows; keeping the shade partially down until reaching the Rockies can help with eye strain.
Lake Tahoe
Crystal blue waters surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada range shortly after departure.
Great Salt Lake
The vast, shimmering white salt flats and distinct turquoise evaporation ponds of northern Utah.
Nebraska Sandhills
The unique, undulating landscape of the largest sand dune formation in the Western Hemisphere.
Chicago Skyline
On clear days, the distant skyscrapers of the Windy City and the deep blue of Lake Michigan are visible to the north.
Lake Erie Coastline
The industrial and natural beauty of the Great Lakes shoreline as the flight nears the Pennsylvania border.
Choose the left side for better lighting on eastbound morning flights, as you will be looking away from the sun. This side is also best for catching glimpses of the Great Lakes and the Chicago metro area during the final third of the journey.
Distance: 3,618 km (2,248 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 15 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: PIT (40.49150085, -80.23290253)
Route Type: Domestic
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