The right side delivers a stronger overall experience: Phoenix's signature mountains and skyline at departure, a chance at Sierra Nevada high-peak views during cruise, and a bay-and-skyline approach into SFO, compared to the flatter desert and East Bay suburban views on the left.
Flown PHX to SFO? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Phoenix to San Francisco is 650 miles (1,046 km), a flight of about 2 hours 10 minutes.
Mojave Desert basin, eastern Sierra Nevada escarpment near Owens Valley, and the southern edge of California's Central Valley as the route descends toward the Bay Area
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHX
RIGHTAs the aircraft climbs out of PHX and banks onto its northwest course toward SFO, the right side faces the cluster of iconic Phoenix landmarks north of downtown, while the left side only shows the flatter South Mountain and Estrella Mountain foothills receding behind.
Landing at SFO
RIGHTOn approach into SFO from the southeast, the flight path curves along the peninsula and bay, putting San Francisco's skyline, the bay waters, and the Golden Gate area on the right side, while the left side mostly shows the East Bay hills and suburban sprawl.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to San Francisco International (SFO)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to San Francisco. The right side delivers a stronger overall experience: Phoenix's signature mountains and skyline at departure, a chance at Sierra Nevada high-peak views during cruise, and a bay-and-skyline approach into SFO, compared to the flatter desert and East Bay suburban views on the left.
What can I see during takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
During takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Right side for the best views. As the aircraft climbs out of PHX and banks onto its northwest course toward SFO, the right side faces the cluster of iconic Phoenix landmarks north of downtown, while the left side only shows the flatter South Mountain and Estrella Mountain foothills receding behind. Notable sights include: Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, downtown Phoenix skyline, McDowell Mountains.
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. On approach into SFO from the southeast, the flight path curves along the peninsula and bay, putting San Francisco's skyline, the bay waters, and the Golden Gate area on the right side, while the left side mostly shows the East Bay hills and suburban sprawl. Notable sights include: San Francisco Bay, San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, San Bruno Mountain.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to San Francisco?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to San Francisco International (SFO) takes about 2 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 650 miles (1,046 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Phoenix to San Francisco flight path pass over?
Mojave Desert basin, eastern Sierra Nevada escarpment near Owens Valley, and the southern edge of California's Central Valley as the route descends toward the Bay Area