While takeoff offers good Mayacamas views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and iconic scenery with Mount Hood and the Cascade Range as centerpieces. The approach to PDX delivers the most memorable visual experience of the flight.
Flown STS to PDX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Santa Rosa to Portland is 489 miles (787 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Northern California coastal ranges (Diablo Range foothills), Sacramento Valley eastern edge, Cascade foothills transition zone, Klamath Basin region at cruising altitude
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from STS
LEFTLeft seats offer immediate views of the Mayacamas Mountains and San Francisco Bay as the aircraft climbs northward. The Bay's eastern shoreline and inland valleys are prominent during the initial climb-out from STS.
Landing at PDX
RIGHTRight seats provide excellent views of the Cascade Range and Mount Hood during descent into PDX. The volcanic peaks and the Columbia River Gorge are visually striking as the aircraft approaches from the south.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS) to Portland International (PDX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Santa Rosa to Portland. While takeoff offers good Mayacamas views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and iconic scenery with Mount Hood and the Cascade Range as centerpieces. The approach to PDX delivers the most memorable visual experience of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa?
During takeoff from Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left seats offer immediate views of the Mayacamas Mountains and San Francisco Bay as the aircraft climbs northward. The Bay's eastern shoreline and inland valleys are prominent during the initial climb-out from STS. Notable sights include: Mayacamas Mountains, San Francisco Bay (eastern arm), Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley foothills.
What can I see when landing at Portland International in Portland?
When landing at Portland International (PDX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right seats provide excellent views of the Cascade Range and Mount Hood during descent into PDX. The volcanic peaks and the Columbia River Gorge are visually striking as the aircraft approaches from the south. Notable sights include: Mount Hood, Cascade Range, Columbia River Gorge, Willamette Valley.
How long is the flight from Santa Rosa to Portland?
The flight from Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS) to Portland International (PDX) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 489 miles (787 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Santa Rosa to Portland flight path pass over?
Northern California coastal ranges (Diablo Range foothills), Sacramento Valley eastern edge, Cascade foothills transition zone, Klamath Basin region at cruising altitude