The takeoff from Norfolk offers more dramatic and distinctive scenery with the military harbor complex and Chesapeake Bay system. While the San Diego landing is scenic, the Norfolk departure provides longer viewing duration of major geographic features during the initial climb phase.
Flown ORF to SAN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Norfolk to San Diego is 2,325 miles (3,742 km), a flight of about 5 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Appalachian Mountains (visible as a ridge system in West Virginia and eastern Kentucky), the Ohio River valley, the Mississippi River near Memphis or St. Louis depending on routing, and the Great Plains. The Rocky Mountains appear on the western approach, with the Colorado Front Range visible before descending into the San Diego basin.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORF
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Hampton Roads waterway system and the Atlantic coastline as the aircraft climbs out westward. You'll see the confluence of the James, Nansemond, and Elizabeth Rivers, plus the Norfolk naval base complex and the Chesapeake Bay entrance.
Landing at SAN
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into San Diego, including the San Diego Bay, Point Loma peninsula, and the downtown skyline. You'll also see the Coronado Islands and the transition from the coastal mountains to the urban area.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Norfolk International (ORF) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Norfolk to San Diego. The takeoff from Norfolk offers more dramatic and distinctive scenery with the military harbor complex and Chesapeake Bay system. While the San Diego landing is scenic, the Norfolk departure provides longer viewing duration of major geographic features during the initial climb phase.
What can I see during takeoff from Norfolk International in Norfolk?
During takeoff from Norfolk International (ORF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Hampton Roads waterway system and the Atlantic coastline as the aircraft climbs out westward. You'll see the confluence of the James, Nansemond, and Elizabeth Rivers, plus the Norfolk naval base complex and the Chesapeake Bay entrance. Notable sights include: Hampton Roads estuary, Chesapeake Bay, Norfolk naval installations, Atlantic coastline.
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. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into San Diego, including the San Diego Bay, Point Loma peninsula, and the downtown skyline. You'll also see the Coronado Islands and the transition from the coastal mountains to the urban area. Notable sights include: San Diego Bay, Point Loma peninsula, Coronado Islands, downtown San Diego waterfront.
How long is the flight from Norfolk to San Diego?
The flight from Norfolk International (ORF) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) takes about 5 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,325 miles (3,742 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Norfolk to San Diego flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Appalachian Mountains (visible as a ridge system in West Virginia and eastern Kentucky), the Ohio River valley, the Mississippi River near Memphis or St. Louis depending on routing, and the Great Plains. The Rocky Mountains appear on the western approach, with the Colorado Front Range visible before descending into the San Diego basin.