About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from New Tokyo International (NRT) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Tokyo to San Diego. Left wins at takeoff with Tokyo Bay and Fuji, but the right side delivers the dramatic San Diego coastal arrival over Mission Bay and Coronado, which is one of the more visually rewarding urban approaches in the US. Over the Pacific crossing itself neither side has a meaningful advantage, so the landing experience tips the balance to the right.
What can I see during takeoff from New Tokyo International in Tokyo?
During takeoff from New Tokyo International (NRT), sit on the Left side for the best views. NRT typically departs on runway 34L/34R heading northwest, then turns eastward over the Pacific. The left side captures Tokyo Bay, the urban sprawl of greater Tokyo, and on clear days Mount Fuji to the southwest. Right side faces open farmland of Chiba Prefecture with little of interest. Notable sights include: Tokyo Bay, Mount Fuji (southwest, ~100km distant), Tokyo metropolitan skyline, Chiba coastal lowlands.
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 Right side for the best views. SAN runway 27 approaches from the east over Mission Valley, putting the right side over Mission Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the Coronado peninsula. The left side faces inland toward the dry hills of El Cajon and Santee with no comparable visual payoff. Notable sights include: Mission Bay, Coronado Island and the Silver Strand, San Diego Bay, Point Loma peninsula.
How long is the flight from Tokyo to San Diego?
The flight from New Tokyo International (NRT) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) takes Approximately 11 to 12 hours.
What does the Tokyo to San Diego flight path pass over?
The route tracks northeast from Narita, crossing the Kuril Islands chain and the Kamchatka Peninsula with its volcanic peaks, then arcs across the North Pacific via the great circle route passing south of the Aleutian Islands. The flight crosses the Gulf of Alaska before making landfall over the Pacific Northwest coast near Oregon or Northern California, then tracks south along the California coast toward San Diego. The Pacific crossing offers occasional views of isolated volcanic island chains and sea ice near the Aleutians at altitude.