While the takeoff sequence favors the right side with distant Appalachian foothills, the left side's approach into San Diego delivers a far more dramatic and iconic payoff, with San Diego Bay, the Coronado Bridge, and Point Loma all visible in sequence during descent.
Flown CLT to SAN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Charlotte to San Diego is 2,073 miles (3,335 km), a flight of about 4 hours 35 minutes.
Mississippi River lowlands, Texas Hill Country and West Texas plains, Rio Grande valley, southern New Mexico basins, and the Sonoran Desert approaching Arizona
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from CLT
RIGHTDeparting CLT in south flow, the aircraft climbs out over the Carolina Piedmont before turning onto its westbound heading, putting the distant Blue Ridge Mountains and South Mountains foothills on the right side as the plane banks west. The left side shows mostly flat farmland and suburban Charlotte with little relief.
Landing at SAN
LEFTOn the standard westward approach into SAN's Runway 27, the aircraft descends over El Cajon and downtown San Diego, and San Diego Bay, the Coronado Bridge, and Point Loma peninsula unfold directly to the left of the flight path just before touchdown. This is one of the most recognizable urban-coastal approaches in the US.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Charlotte Douglas International (CLT) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Charlotte to San Diego. While the takeoff sequence favors the right side with distant Appalachian foothills, the left side's approach into San Diego delivers a far more dramatic and iconic payoff, with San Diego Bay, the Coronado Bridge, and Point Loma all visible in sequence during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Charlotte Douglas International in Charlotte?
During takeoff from Charlotte Douglas International (CLT), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing CLT in south flow, the aircraft climbs out over the Carolina Piedmont before turning onto its westbound heading, putting the distant Blue Ridge Mountains and South Mountains foothills on the right side as the plane banks west. The left side shows mostly flat farmland and suburban Charlotte with little relief. Notable sights include: Charlotte skyline, South Mountains foothills, distant Blue Ridge Escarpment, Catawba River.
What can I see when landing at San Diego International Lindbergh Fld in San Diego?
When landing at San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN), sit on the Left side for the best views. On the standard westward approach into SAN's Runway 27, the aircraft descends over El Cajon and downtown San Diego, and San Diego Bay, the Coronado Bridge, and Point Loma peninsula unfold directly to the left of the flight path just before touchdown. This is one of the most recognizable urban-coastal approaches in the US. Notable sights include: San Diego Bay, Coronado Bridge, Point Loma peninsula, downtown San Diego skyline.
How long is the flight from Charlotte to San Diego?
The flight from Charlotte Douglas International (CLT) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) takes about 4 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,073 miles (3,335 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Charlotte to San Diego flight path pass over?
Mississippi River lowlands, Texas Hill Country and West Texas plains, Rio Grande valley, southern New Mexico basins, and the Sonoran Desert approaching Arizona