About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) to New Tokyo International (NRT)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from San Diego to Tokyo. Left side wins at both ends of the flight. Over the Pacific the views are largely ocean regardless of side, but the left seat delivers the best of San Diego Bay on departure and Tokyo Bay plus the city on arrival. If skies are clear over central Japan, left also picks up the best angle on Mount Fuji during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld in San Diego?
During takeoff from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN), sit on the Left side for the best views. San Diego departures on runway 27 head west over the bay before turning north. The left side gives you San Diego Bay, the Coronado Bridge, and the downtown skyline as you climb out. Right side faces north toward Mission Hills and suburban sprawl. Notable sights include: San Diego Bay, Coronado Bridge, Point Loma peninsula, downtown San Diego skyline.
What can I see when landing at New Tokyo International in Tokyo?
When landing at New Tokyo International (NRT), sit on the Left side for the best views. NRT approaches from the east on runway 34L/34R heading roughly north, or from the south on runway 16. On a typical southerly approach over the Pacific, the left side faces west toward Tokyo Bay, the urban sprawl of greater Tokyo, and on clear days Mount Fuji on the distant horizon. Right side looks east over the Pacific and Chiba farmland. Notable sights include: Tokyo Bay, greater Tokyo urban grid, Mount Fuji (on clear days, distant horizon), Chiba coastal lowlands.
How long is the flight from San Diego to Tokyo?
The flight from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) to New Tokyo International (NRT) takes Approximately 11 to 12 hours.
What does the San Diego to Tokyo flight path pass over?
The great circle route from San Diego to Tokyo arcs northward over the northeastern Pacific, passing south of the Aleutian Islands chain. Midpoint is roughly over the open North Pacific around 45-50 degrees north latitude, 170 degrees west longitude. Visible features are limited to ocean, occasional sea ice in winter months near the Aleutians, and cloud systems. The route may pass within viewing distance of the Aleutian island chain depending on exact routing, where volcanic peaks like Shishaldin on Unimak Island can be spotted on clear days. As the flight descends toward Japan, the Tohoku coastline and the Kanto Plain become visible.