About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) to Kahului (OGG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from San Diego to Kahului. While left wins on takeoff, right provides superior views for the majority of the flight and the entire landing sequence. The approach to Kahului showcases Maui's dramatic volcanic topography best from the right side, and you'll spend more flight time descending toward Maui than climbing out of San Diego.
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 typically departs runways 09L/R heading east or northeast. Left seats offer immediate views of San Diego Bay, the downtown skyline, and the Coronado Peninsula as you climb out over the water. Right seats face inland toward the urban sprawl and hills. Notable sights include: San Diego Bay (directly below during initial climb), Coronado Island and its distinctive bridge, downtown San Diego skyline, Point Loma peninsula.
What can I see when landing at Kahului in Kahului?
When landing at Kahului (OGG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Kahului Airport (OGG) sits on Maui's north shore. Approaches typically come from the north or northeast over the Pacific. Right seats provide views of the West Maui mountains, the isthmus connecting West and East Maui, and Haleakala's slopes on the right side during descent. Left seats face open ocean. Notable sights include: West Maui mountains (Pu'u Kukui massif), the Maui isthmus (narrow land bridge between volcanic domes), Haleakala volcano's northeastern slopes, Kahului Bay and the airport runway environment.
How long is the flight from San Diego to Kahului?
The flight from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) to Kahului (OGG) takes Approximately 5 hours 15 minutes.
What does the San Diego to Kahului flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses open Pacific Ocean for roughly 4.5 hours. About 2 hours out, you'll pass south of the Big Island of Hawaii (Hawai'i Island) at altitude—Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa appear as distant peaks on the horizon if weather permits. The smaller islands of Moloka'i and Lana'i become visible roughly 45 minutes before landing, appearing as small dark landmasses on the horizon. The approach to Maui brings the West Maui mountains and Haleakala into clear view during the final descent.