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SMF → BUR
Which side of the plane to sit from Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento) to Bob Hope Airport (Burbank)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the majestic Sierra Nevada range to the east and provides a more dramatic perspective of the rugged mountain transition as the plane enters the Los Angeles basin.
Search flights from SMF to BUR
Sierra Nevada Skyline
Distant but clear views of the high peaks of the Sierras, often snow-capped during winter and spring.
Central Valley Tapestry
A vast geometric mosaic of orchards, vineyards, and farmland stretching across the heart of California.
Tehachapi Wind Farm
Thousands of white wind turbines clustered in the mountain passes at the southern edge of the valley.
Antelope Valley
The high desert landscape of Palmdale and Lancaster, showing a stark contrast to the green valley.
San Gabriel Mountains
A close-up look at the steep, rugged peaks that separate the desert from the urban sprawl of Los Angeles.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is best for viewing the massive scale of the Sierra Nevada. During the final descent, look for the 'Grapevine' section of the I-5 freeway as it climbs over the mountains.
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Diablo Range
The rolling, golden hills of the Coast Ranges that form the western boundary of the Central Valley.
San Luis Reservoir
A large, distinct turquoise body of water located near the Pacheco Pass area.
Pyramid Lake
A deep blue reservoir tucked into the mountains along the I-5 corridor just before entering the LA area.
Magic Mountain
The recognizable roller coasters of Six Flags Magic Mountain are often visible during the initial descent.
San Fernando Valley
The sprawling urban grid of the valley as you make your final turn into the Burbank airport.
Choose the right side for sunset flights to experience the golden hour over the coastal hills. This side is also better for spotting the San Andreas Fault lines in the arid terrain south of Bakersfield. Watch for the dramatic change from wilderness to dense suburbs during the final 10 minutes.
Book Hotels in BurbankDistance: 577 km (359 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 58 min
Departure: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)
Arrival: BUR (34.200698852539055, -118.35900115966795)
Route Type: Domestic
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