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SLC → OAK
Which side of the plane to sit from Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City) to Metropolitan Oakland International Airport (Oakland)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the most iconic views, including a direct look at the Great Salt Lake after takeoff and a stunning perspective of Lake Tahoe and the northern Sierras during the descent into California.
Great Salt Lake
Witness the stark contrast of the turquoise and pink waters and the white salt crusts of Antelope Island.
Bonneville Salt Flats
The world-famous speedway site appears as a blindingly white expanse of salt near the Utah-Nevada border.
Sierra Nevada Mountains
Spectacular snow-capped peaks and rugged granite ridges as you cross the California border.
Lake Tahoe
On many flight paths, the deep blue waters of North America's largest alpine lake are visible to the north.
Sacramento Delta
The intricate network of rivers, sloughs, and islands where the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers meet.
San Francisco Bay
As the plane turns for its final approach, you get a sweeping view of the northern bay and the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge.
The right side is ideal for photography because the sun is generally on the opposite side, reducing window glare. For the best views of Lake Tahoe, look out about 40 minutes after takeoff. During winter months, the snow coverage on the Sierra Nevada is particularly dramatic.
Bingham Canyon Mine
One of the world's largest open-pit mines, visible shortly after departing SLC to the south.
Great Basin Desert
Expansive views of Nevada's 'Basin and Range' topography with isolated mountain peaks.
Mount Diablo
A prominent landmark in the East Bay, signaling the final approach into the Oakland area.
Central Valley
The vast agricultural heartland of California, appearing as a patchwork of green and brown fields.
Downtown Oakland
Excellent views of the Oakland city center and Lake Merritt during the final descent stages.
Sit on the left for a view of the massive Kennecott Copper Mine upon departure. However, be aware that the sun will be on this side of the aircraft for most daytime flights, which can create significant glare and heat. Look for the San Francisco skyline in the distance as you cross the Diablo Range.
Distance: 945 km (587 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Arrival: OAK (37.721298, -122.221001)
Route Type: Domestic
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