While takeoff offers Scottish coastal views, the landing approach into San Francisco provides more dramatic and iconic scenery. The Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands are among the world's most visually striking aerial views, making the right side the stronger choice for the overall journey.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic, passing south of Iceland and Greenland. You'll see the Atlantic Ocean for most of the journey. As you approach North America, the Canadian Maritime provinces and New England coastline become visible. The flight then crosses the continental interior, with views of the Great Lakes region, the Rocky Mountains (particularly visible if flying a slightly northern route), and eventually the Sierra Nevada mountains before descent into the San Francisco Bay Area. The most dramatic midpoint scenery occurs over the Rocky Mountains and the transition to the Great Basin and Sierra Nevada ranges.
Phase by phase
Takeoff from
Landing at
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
.jpg?width=600)
Will your flight be in sunlight?
See exactly which side of the plane gets sun and shade at your departure time.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Edinburgh (EDI) to San Francisco International (SFO)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Edinburgh to San Francisco. While takeoff offers Scottish coastal views, the landing approach into San Francisco provides more dramatic and iconic scenery. The Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands are among the world's most visually striking aerial views, making the right side the stronger choice for the overall journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Edinburgh in Edinburgh?
During takeoff from Edinburgh (EDI), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Firth of Forth and the Scottish coastline as you climb out northeastward. You'll see the water body and coastal geography that defines Edinburgh's setting. Notable sights include: Firth of Forth, Pentland Hills (south of Edinburgh), Scottish Central Belt cities, North Sea coastline.
What can I see when landing at San Francisco International in San Francisco?
When landing at San Francisco International (SFO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views of the San Francisco Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, and the Marin Headlands during final approach from the north. The dramatic coastal topography and iconic bridge are unmissable visual landmarks. Notable sights include: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, Marin Headlands, Pacific coastline.
How long is the flight from Edinburgh to San Francisco?
The flight from Edinburgh (EDI) to San Francisco International (SFO) takes Approximately 10 hours 15 minutes to 10 hours 45 minutes.
What does the Edinburgh to San Francisco flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic, passing south of Iceland and Greenland. You'll see the Atlantic Ocean for most of the journey. As you approach North America, the Canadian Maritime provinces and New England coastline become visible. The flight then crosses the continental interior, with views of the Great Lakes region, the Rocky Mountains (particularly visible if flying a slightly northern route), and eventually the Sierra Nevada mountains before descent into the San Francisco Bay Area. The most dramatic midpoint scenery occurs over the Rocky Mountains and the transition to the Great Basin and Sierra Nevada ranges.