While SFO's departure favors the left side, the right side offers a more consistent scenic payoff across the flight — cruise views toward the Alps and Mediterranean basin as the route curves southeast into Europe, followed by the standout Tel Aviv coastal approach on landing.
Flown SFO to TLV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
San Francisco to Tel Aviv is 7,407 miles (11,921 km), a flight of about 13 hours 45 minutes.
The great-circle path passes near Newfoundland, crosses the North Atlantic south of Iceland, continues over Ireland and continental Europe near the Alps, then crosses the Mediterranean Sea before reaching the Israeli coast.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SFO
LEFTSFO's eastbound departure off runway 28R climbs the aircraft out over San Francisco Bay with the city skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and Marin headlands unfolding on the left side. The right side shows only the flatter San Bruno hills and South Bay suburbs, far less dramatic.
Landing at TLV
RIGHTArrivals into Ben Gurion typically approach from the east before aligning with the westerly runway, giving right-side passengers a sweeping view north over the Tel Aviv skyline, the Mediterranean coastline, and the old port city of Jaffa as the aircraft descends. The left side mostly overlooks flatter inland terrain and the Judean foothills.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from San Francisco International (SFO) to Ben Gurion (TLV)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from San Francisco to Tel Aviv. While SFO's departure favors the left side, the right side offers a more consistent scenic payoff across the flight — cruise views toward the Alps and Mediterranean basin as the route curves southeast into Europe, followed by the standout Tel Aviv coastal approach on landing.
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's eastbound departure off runway 28R climbs the aircraft out over San Francisco Bay with the city skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and Marin headlands unfolding on the left side. The right side shows only the flatter San Bruno hills and South Bay suburbs, far less dramatic. Notable sights include: San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, Marin Headlands.
What can I see when landing at Ben Gurion in Tel Aviv?
When landing at Ben Gurion (TLV), sit on the Right side for the best views. Arrivals into Ben Gurion typically approach from the east before aligning with the westerly runway, giving right-side passengers a sweeping view north over the Tel Aviv skyline, the Mediterranean coastline, and the old port city of Jaffa as the aircraft descends. The left side mostly overlooks flatter inland terrain and the Judean foothills. Notable sights include: Tel Aviv skyline, Mediterranean coastline, Jaffa old city, Yarkon River mouth.
How long is the flight from San Francisco to Tel Aviv?
The flight from San Francisco International (SFO) to Ben Gurion (TLV) takes about 13 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 7,407 miles (11,921 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the San Francisco to Tel Aviv flight path pass over?
The great-circle path passes near Newfoundland, crosses the North Atlantic south of Iceland, continues over Ireland and continental Europe near the Alps, then crosses the Mediterranean Sea before reaching the Israeli coast.