Takeoff offers superior volcanic scenery with Hualalai's dramatic western face and the Kona coast. While landing provides Sierra Nevada views, the takeoff experience is more visually distinctive and memorable.
Flown KOA to MCC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Kona to Sacramento is 2,443 miles (3,931 km), a flight of about 5 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Pacific at roughly 20,000-25,000 feet. After 2.5 hours, you'll be over open ocean with no visible landmarks. As you approach the California coast (around hour 4), the Sierra Nevada becomes visible on the horizon to the northeast. The Central Valley's agricultural grid becomes apparent in the final hour of flight, with the Sacramento region's urban development visible before descent.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from KOA
LEFTKOA typically departs runway 17 (southbound). Left seats face west toward the open Pacific and the dramatic western flank of Hualalai volcano, which dominates the immediate landscape. Right seats look inland toward the saddle between Hualalai and Mauna Kea.
Landing at MCC
RIGHTMcClellan Field (runway 16/34) typically receives traffic from the west on runway 16. Right seats face north during approach, offering views of the Sierra Nevada foothills and the American River valley. Left seats see mostly the flat Central Valley farmland.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Kona International At Keahole (KOA) to Mc Clellan Afld (MCC)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Kona to Sacramento. Takeoff offers superior volcanic scenery with Hualalai's dramatic western face and the Kona coast. While landing provides Sierra Nevada views, the takeoff experience is more visually distinctive and memorable.
What can I see during takeoff from Kona International At Keahole in Kona?
During takeoff from Kona International At Keahole (KOA), sit on the Left side for the best views. KOA typically departs runway 17 (southbound). Left seats face west toward the open Pacific and the dramatic western flank of Hualalai volcano, which dominates the immediate landscape. Right seats look inland toward the saddle between Hualalai and Mauna Kea. Notable sights include: Hualalai volcano (west face), Kailua-Kona town and harbor (south), Kona coast lava fields (black volcanic terrain), Pacific Ocean horizon.
What can I see when landing at Mc Clellan Afld in Sacramento?
When landing at Mc Clellan Afld (MCC), sit on the Right side for the best views. McClellan Field (runway 16/34) typically receives traffic from the west on runway 16. Right seats face north during approach, offering views of the Sierra Nevada foothills and the American River valley. Left seats see mostly the flat Central Valley farmland. Notable sights include: Sierra Nevada mountain range (north and northeast), American River and Folsom Lake (east), Sacramento urban sprawl (south and west), Central Valley agricultural grid.
How long is the flight from Kona to Sacramento?
The flight from Kona International At Keahole (KOA) to Mc Clellan Afld (MCC) takes about 5 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,443 miles (3,931 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Kona to Sacramento flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Pacific at roughly 20,000-25,000 feet. After 2.5 hours, you'll be over open ocean with no visible landmarks. As you approach the California coast (around hour 4), the Sierra Nevada becomes visible on the horizon to the northeast. The Central Valley's agricultural grid becomes apparent in the final hour of flight, with the Sacramento region's urban development visible before descent.