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SMF → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior viewing experience, featuring the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains during the cruise and an iconic, world-famous approach over Balboa Park and Downtown San Diego just before touchdown.
Sierra Nevada Mountains
Stunning views of the high peaks to the east, including the outskirts of Yosemite and the southern Sierras.
Tehachapi Pass
Watch the dramatic terrain shift as the flight crosses the mountains separating the Central Valley from Southern California.
Inland Empire Sprawl
A bird's-eye view of the dense urban grid stretching from San Bernardino down toward the Peninsular Ranges.
Balboa Park
A remarkably low-altitude view of the California Tower and Botanical Building during the final seconds of flight.
San Diego Skyline
Unrivaled views of the downtown skyscrapers as the plane descends below the level of some building tops.
Sit on the left (Seat A) for the most dramatic landing in the US. For morning flights, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses. This side is particularly beautiful in winter when the Sierras are covered in snow. Request a window seat forward of the wing to ensure your view of Balboa Park isn't obstructed during the steep descent.
Central Valley Farmland
Observe the intricate geometric patterns of California's primary agricultural hub and massive orchards.
Pacific Horizon
On clear days, you can see the shimmering Pacific Ocean and the distant silhouette of the Channel Islands.
LA Basin & Coast
A wide-angle view of the Los Angeles coastline and the Santa Monica Mountains in the distance.
Point Loma
As the plane banks for landing, enjoy views of the peninsula, the lighthouse, and San Diego Bay.
The right side (Seat F) is ideal for afternoon or sunset flights, as you'll have a front-row seat to the sun dipping into the Pacific. It offers a more relaxed, coastal perspective compared to the urban drama of the left side. It's also the better side for viewing the San Andreas Fault lines running through the Temblor Range mid-flight.
Distance: 773 km (480 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 17 min
Departure: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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