About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from San Francisco International (SFO) to Adelaide International (ADL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from San Francisco to Adelaide. The left side delivers the more spectacular takeoff view with San Francisco Bay and the city skyline. Over the Pacific the views are largely featureless ocean on both sides, so the departure experience tips the balance. If you prioritize the Adelaide arrival, right is better, but the San Francisco departure is the highlight of this route.
What can I see during takeoff from San Francisco International in San Francisco?
During takeoff from San Francisco International (SFO), sit on the Left side for the best views. SFO typically departs northwest on runways 28L/28R, then turns south over the Bay. Left side gives you the San Francisco Peninsula, the city skyline, and the Bay Bridge as you climb out. Right side faces the East Bay hills and Oakland, which is less dramatic. Notable sights include: San Francisco city skyline and downtown, Bay Bridge, San Francisco Bay, San Mateo Peninsula coastline.
What can I see when landing at Adelaide International in Adelaide?
When landing at Adelaide International (ADL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Adelaide Airport sits just west of the city, and aircraft typically approach from the northwest on runway 23. The right side gives you the Adelaide CBD grid, the Adelaide Hills escarpment to the east, and Gulf St Vincent to the west as you descend. Left side faces mostly flat suburban sprawl toward Port Adelaide. Notable sights include: Adelaide CBD and parklands grid, Adelaide Hills (Mount Lofty Ranges), Gulf St Vincent, Port River estuary.
How long is the flight from San Francisco to Adelaide?
The flight from San Francisco International (SFO) to Adelaide International (ADL) takes Approximately 17-19 hours depending on routing and winds.
What does the San Francisco to Adelaide flight path pass over?
The great circle route crosses the central Pacific Ocean, passing south of Hawaii (not visible unless routing goes near it), over the vast open South Pacific with no significant landmasses. The route eventually crosses the northwest coast of Australia near the Kimberley region or the Northern Territory, then tracks southeast over the Australian outback — the flat red-brown expanse of South Australia's interior, including the Flinders Ranges visible as a wrinkled ridge system, before descending into Adelaide.