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SFO → RNO
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Reno Tahoe International Airport (Reno)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior panoramic perspective of Lake Tahoe's vast blue expanse, including the iconic Emerald Bay and the jagged peaks of the Desolation Wilderness during the descent.
Search flights from SFO to RNO
San Mateo Bridge
A clear view of the longest bridge in the San Francisco Bay Area during the departure phase.
Central Valley
The vast, geometric patchwork of California's agricultural heartland stretching toward the horizon.
Desolation Wilderness
Stark, glaciated granite landscapes and high-alpine lakes just southwest of Lake Tahoe.
Emerald Bay
The most photographed spot on Lake Tahoe, featuring Fannette Island sitting in the middle of a turquoise inlet.
The right side is essential for the classic Lake Tahoe 'wow' factor. Sit in front of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. On clear days, the contrast between the snow-capped Sierras and the deep blue water is spectacular.
Book Hotels in RenoSan Francisco Skyline
A potential glimpse of the city, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz during the initial climb out of SFO.
Mount Diablo
The most prominent peak in the East Bay, standing as a lone sentinel over the surrounding valleys.
Northern Lake Tahoe
Views of Crystal Bay and the shoreline near Incline Village as the plane crosses the Sierra crest.
Donner Pass
The historic crossing used by the transcontinental railroad and the ill-fated Donner Party.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is ideal for spotting the northern Tahoe shoreline and the rugged terrain around the Truckee River corridor during the final approach.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 308 km (191 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 31 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: RNO (39.49909973144531, -119.76799774169922)
Route Type: Domestic
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