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SJC → PDX
Which side of the plane to sit from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose) to Portland International Airport (Portland)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled 'Volcano Tour' of the Cascade Range, featuring massive snow-capped peaks like Mount Shasta and Mount Hood.
Lassen Peak
The southernmost active volcano in the Cascades, surrounded by the rugged terrain of Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Mount Shasta
The crown jewel of the flight; a massive, isolated 14,179-foot stratovolcano that dominates the horizon for nearly 20 minutes.
Three Sisters
A trio of spectacular peaks (North, Middle, and South) clustered together in the Central Oregon Cascades.
Mount Jefferson
Oregon's second-highest peak, featuring sharp, glacial-carved ridges and permanent snowfields.
Mount Hood
Oregon's highest peak, appearing incredibly close and majestic during the final descent into Portland.
The right side is essential for mountain lovers. Mount Shasta is the mid-flight highlight, often appearing so large it seems within reach. As you approach Portland, watch for Mount Hood; if PDX is landing to the west, you may even fly directly past the mountain's north face. Afternoon flights offer the best 'golden hour' lighting on these eastern peaks.
San Francisco Bay Area
Aerial views of the San Francisco Peninsula, the Bay, and sometimes the Golden Gate Bridge during the initial climb.
Pacific Coastline
Stunning vistas of the rugged Northern California and Southern Oregon coastlines meeting the deep blue Pacific.
Redwood National Park
Dense, dark green canopies of the world's tallest trees stretching across the misty coastal mountains.
Oregon Coast Range
Rolling green ridges and deep valleys that characterize the landscape of Western Oregon.
Willamette Valley
The fertile, agricultural heart of Oregon with its patchwork of farms and vineyards leading into Portland.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct sun and enjoy soft lighting over the Pacific. If the aircraft departs SJC to the north, you will have a front-row seat to the Silicon Valley tech campuses and the San Francisco skyline shortly after takeoff. This side is also superior for viewing the sunset over the ocean on late-afternoon flights.
Distance: 916 km (569 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Arrival: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)
Route Type: Domestic
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