While takeoff favors the right for San Diego Bay views, the landing approach over Lake Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area from the left is more visually rewarding and lasts longer. The left side captures the most dramatic scenery on this route.
Flown SAN to YYZ? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
San Diego to Toronto is 2,153 miles (3,465 km), a flight of about 5 hours.
The flight path crosses the Great Plains and Great Lakes region. Notable features include the Rocky Mountains (visible from altitude around 1.5 hours into flight, appearing as a distant ridge on the left/north side of the aircraft), the Canadian Prairies (relatively featureless, brown and green patchwork), the Great Lakes system (Lake Michigan and Lake Huron visible as large water bodies in the latter half of the flight), and the transition into the Canadian Shield's forested terrain as you approach Ontario. The Niagara Escarpment becomes visible as a subtle topographic feature in the final descent phase.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SAN
RIGHTRight-side seats offer immediate views of San Diego Bay, the Pacific coastline, and the city grid as the aircraft climbs northwest. You'll see the bay's distinctive shape and North Island Naval Base before heading inland over the coastal ranges.
Landing at YYZ
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the approach to Toronto. You'll see Lake Ontario's expanse, the Greater Toronto Area's urban sprawl, and the Scarborough Bluffs as the aircraft descends from the east toward Pearson International.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) to Lester B Pearson International (YYZ)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from San Diego to Toronto. While takeoff favors the right for San Diego Bay views, the landing approach over Lake Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area from the left is more visually rewarding and lasts longer. The left side captures the most dramatic scenery on this route.
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 Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer immediate views of San Diego Bay, the Pacific coastline, and the city grid as the aircraft climbs northwest. You'll see the bay's distinctive shape and North Island Naval Base before heading inland over the coastal ranges. Notable sights include: San Diego Bay, Pacific Ocean coastline, Coronado Island, Peninsular Ranges foothills.
What can I see when landing at Lester B Pearson International in Toronto?
When landing at Lester B Pearson International (YYZ), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the approach to Toronto. You'll see Lake Ontario's expanse, the Greater Toronto Area's urban sprawl, and the Scarborough Bluffs as the aircraft descends from the east toward Pearson International. Notable sights include: Lake Ontario, Greater Toronto Area urban grid, Scarborough Bluffs, Niagara Escarpment (distant).
How long is the flight from San Diego to Toronto?
The flight from San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) to Lester B Pearson International (YYZ) takes about 5 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 2,153 miles (3,465 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the San Diego to Toronto flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Great Plains and Great Lakes region. Notable features include the Rocky Mountains (visible from altitude around 1.5 hours into flight, appearing as a distant ridge on the left/north side of the aircraft), the Canadian Prairies (relatively featureless, brown and green patchwork), the Great Lakes system (Lake Michigan and Lake Huron visible as large water bodies in the latter half of the flight), and the transition into the Canadian Shield's forested terrain as you approach Ontario. The Niagara Escarpment becomes visible as a subtle topographic feature in the final descent phase.