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SMF → LGB
Which side of the plane to sit from Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento) to Long Beach /Daugherty Field/ Airport (Long Beach)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada range for the first half of the trip and a closer look at the rugged San Gabriel Mountains and the urban sprawl of Los Angeles upon descent.
Search flights from SMF to LGB
Sierra Nevada Range
Distant but stunning views of the high peaks of the Sierras, including Yosemite and Mount Whitney on clear days.
Tehachapi Pass
Watch the landscape transition from the green Central Valley to the arid high desert and wind farms.
San Gabriel Mountains
Direct views of the jagged peaks that border the northern edge of the Los Angeles Basin.
Downtown Los Angeles
During the final descent, the skyscrapers of DTLA are often visible to the left as the plane aligns for Long Beach.
Sit in an 'A' seat for the best views. Morning flights are ideal as the rising sun illuminates the Sierra Nevada peaks. During the winter, the snow-covered mountains provide a dramatic contrast to the valley below.
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Central Valley Farmland
A bird's-eye view of the geometric patterns and colorful orchards of the San Joaquin Valley.
Pyramid Lake
A striking blue reservoir located along the Interstate 5 'Grapevine' corridor through the mountains.
Palos Verdes Peninsula
On the final approach, enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic cliffs of the coast.
Port of Long Beach
Incredible views of the massive cargo ships, cranes, and the Queen Mary right before touchdown.
Choose an 'F' seat for coastal views. Afternoon flights are perfect on this side as the sun is behind you, lighting up the Pacific coastline and the Port of Long Beach without glare.
Book Hotels in Long BeachDistance: 624 km (388 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 2 min
Departure: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)
Arrival: LGB (33.81769943, -118.1520004)
Route Type: Domestic
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