Both sides get a strong bookend view, but Hong Kong's skyline-and-harbor approach is a more famous and visually dense scene than the brief San Francisco departure glimpse, and it tips the long, mostly oceanic flight in favor of the right side.
Flight Path
Gulf of Alaska, Aleutian Islands, Kamchatka Peninsula's volcanic ridgeline, Sea of Japan, Korean Peninsula coastline, East China Sea, Pearl River Delta
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SFO
LEFTAfter the eastbound takeoff roll over the Bay, aircraft heading toward Asia bank north and climb up the California coast, swinging San Francisco's skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Marin Headlands into view on the left side before the coastline recedes behind for the long Pacific crossing.
Landing at HKG
RIGHTOn final descent into Chek Lap Kok, the approach path curves past Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, giving right-side passengers a sweeping view of the dense high-rise skyline and Victoria Harbour before the aircraft turns south over Lantau Island's green peaks for landing.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from San Francisco International (SFO) to Hong Kong International (HKG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from San Francisco to Hong Kong. Both sides get a strong bookend view, but Hong Kong's skyline-and-harbor approach is a more famous and visually dense scene than the brief San Francisco departure glimpse, and it tips the long, mostly oceanic flight in favor of the right side.
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. After the eastbound takeoff roll over the Bay, aircraft heading toward Asia bank north and climb up the California coast, swinging San Francisco's skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Marin Headlands into view on the left side before the coastline recedes behind for the long Pacific crossing. Notable sights include: San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, Marin Headlands.
What can I see when landing at Hong Kong International in Hong Kong?
When landing at Hong Kong International (HKG), sit on the Right side for the best views. On final descent into Chek Lap Kok, the approach path curves past Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, giving right-side passengers a sweeping view of the dense high-rise skyline and Victoria Harbour before the aircraft turns south over Lantau Island's green peaks for landing. Notable sights include: Hong Kong Island skyline, Victoria Harbour, Kowloon peninsula, Lantau Island mountains.
How long is the flight from San Francisco to Hong Kong?
The flight from San Francisco International (SFO) to Hong Kong International (HKG) takes 15h 20m.
What does the San Francisco to Hong Kong flight path pass over?
Gulf of Alaska, Aleutian Islands, Kamchatka Peninsula's volcanic ridgeline, Sea of Japan, Korean Peninsula coastline, East China Sea, Pearl River Delta