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STS → PDX
Which side of the plane to sit from Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (Santa Rosa) to Portland International Airport (Portland)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is dominated by the majestic Cascade Range, offering a front-row seat to several of the most famous stratovolcanoes in the Pacific Northwest, including Mount Shasta and Mount Hood.
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Mount Shasta
A massive, snow-covered volcanic giant that stands as a primary landmark in Northern California.
Crater Lake
If the flight path is inland enough, the sapphire blue water of the deepest lake in the USA is visible.
Three Sisters
The iconic trio of peaks (North, Middle, and South) in the central Oregon Cascades.
Mount Jefferson
The second highest peak in Oregon, featuring a sharp, craggy profile.
Mount Hood
An exceptionally close and dramatic view of Oregon's highest peak just before landing at PDX.
Columbia River Gorge
The massive river canyon marking the border between Oregon and Washington during the arrival sequence.
The right side is essential for volcano enthusiasts. For the best lighting on the mountains, choose a morning flight when the sun is in the east. Be prepared with your camera about 20-30 minutes after takeoff from STS for Mount Shasta, and stay alert during the last 15 minutes of the flight for a spectacular pass by Mount Hood.
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Mendocino National Forest
Deep green vistas of Northern California's rugged, forested terrain shortly after takeoff.
Pacific Horizon
On clear days, the distant blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean and the jagged coastline are visible.
Oregon Coast Range
View the dense, rolling hills that separate the Willamette Valley from the Pacific Ocean.
Tualatin Valley
The suburban sprawl and agricultural patches of the western Portland metro area during the final descent.
Choose the left side if you want to avoid direct sunlight during a morning flight. While less dramatic than the right, it offers peaceful views of the redwood-heavy forests and the lush greenery of the Willamette Valley. Late afternoon flights provide beautiful sunset colors over the Pacific horizon.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 787 km (489 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min
Departure: STS (38.50899887, -122.8130035)
Arrival: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)
Route Type: Domestic
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