About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from El Salvador International (SAL) to San Francisco International (SFO)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from San Salvador to San Francisco. While the right side wins at takeoff for El Salvador's volcanic chain, the left side delivers the more dramatic and sustained views: the Mexican Pacific coast and Baja California peninsula are visible on the left during cruise, and the left side absolutely dominates on arrival with the full San Francisco Bay panorama. For the overall experience, left is the better seat.
What can I see during takeoff from El Salvador International in San Salvador?
During takeoff from El Salvador International (SAL), sit on the Right side for the best views. SAL's primary departure runway is 07, heading east, then aircraft turn northward. A right-side seat gives you a clear view of the volcanic chain running along El Salvador's interior, including Santa Ana volcano and Izalco, as the plane banks left and climbs northwest. The Pacific coastline and Gulf of Fonseca are also visible to the right as you gain altitude. Notable sights include: Santa Ana volcano (Ilamatepec), Izalco volcano ('Lighthouse of the Pacific'), Lake Coatepeque caldera, Pacific coastal plain.
What can I see when landing at San Francisco International in San Francisco?
When landing at San Francisco International (SFO), sit on the Left side for the best views. SFO's primary landing approach on runways 28L/28R comes in from the east over the Bay Area. A left-side seat gives you a direct view of the San Francisco Bay, the Bay Bridge, and downtown San Francisco skyline as you descend over the water. The approach path tracks directly over the bay, making the left side the clear winner. Notable sights include: San Francisco Bay, San Francisco downtown skyline, Bay Bridge (Oakland-Bay Bridge), San Mateo-Hayward Bridge.
How long is the flight from San Salvador to San Francisco?
The flight from El Salvador International (SAL) to San Francisco International (SFO) takes Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
What does the San Salvador to San Francisco flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northwest over Guatemala and southern Mexico, crossing the Sierra Madre de Chiapas and the Mexican Plateau. Over the Gulf of California, Baja California's long narrow peninsula is visible below. The route then crosses the Pacific coast of California near Point Conception before tracking north along the Central Valley and into the Bay Area. The Sierra Nevada range is visible to the east during the California segment.