About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR) to Norman Y Mineta San Jose International (SJC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Burbank to San Jose. While takeoff offers good mountain views on the left, the landing approach on the right provides more sustained and dramatic scenery—the Santa Cruz Mountains, bay shoreline, and South Bay urban landscape create a more visually rewarding final descent than the initial climb-out.
What can I see during takeoff from Burbank Glendale Pasadena in Burbank?
During takeoff from Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers immediate views of the San Gabriel Mountains as you climb northeastward out of Burbank. The ridge line and peaks become prominent within the first 10–15 minutes of flight, providing dramatic topography against the Los Angeles basin. Notable sights include: San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles downtown skyline (southeast), Verdugo Mountains (north), San Fernando Valley urban sprawl.
What can I see when landing at Norman Y Mineta San Jose International in San Jose?
When landing at Norman Y Mineta San Jose International (SJC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the San Francisco Bay shoreline as you descend toward San Jose from the north. The bay's eastern shore, Diablo Range foothills, and the urban sprawl of the South Bay are all visible on approach. Notable sights include: Santa Cruz Mountains, San Francisco Bay (eastern shore and South Bay), Diablo Range, San Jose urban area.
How long is the flight from Burbank to San Jose?
The flight from Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR) to Norman Y Mineta San Jose International (SJC) takes 1h 15m.
What does the Burbank to San Jose flight path pass over?
Monterey Bay (visible to the west during cruise), Salinas Valley agricultural region, Gabilan Range, Hollister area, and the transition from coastal California terrain to inland valley geography