About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Sungshan (TSA) to San Francisco International (SFO)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Taipei to San Francisco. The right side wins overall because the Taipei departure view is more dramatic and geographically rich — Taipei 101, the river delta, and the volcanic mountains all in one climb-out sequence. The SFO landing on the left is excellent but the right side still gets reasonable bay views on approach. For the full flight experience, right side edges it.
What can I see during takeoff from Sungshan in Taipei?
During takeoff from Sungshan (TSA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Songshan Airport's primary departure runway 10 sends aircraft eastward over central Taipei before turning northeast. The right side gives you a clear look back over the Taipei Basin, the Tamsui River system, and the northern coast of Taiwan as you climb out over the city. Notable sights include: Taipei 101 skyscraper, Tamsui River and Danshui estuary, Yangmingshan volcanic range to the north, Keelung Harbor on the northeast coast.
What can I see when landing at San Francisco International in San Francisco?
When landing at San Francisco International (SFO), sit on the Left side for the best views. SFO's primary arrival runways 28L and 28R bring aircraft in from the east over the Bay, meaning a left-side seat faces south toward the San Francisco Peninsula, the bay shoreline, and the city itself. You get a prolonged view of the South Bay, the San Mateo Bridge, and the San Francisco skyline as you descend over the water. Notable sights include: San Francisco Bay and South Bay shallows, San Mateo Bridge, San Francisco city skyline and the Peninsula, Oakland and the East Bay hills.
How long is the flight from Taipei to San Francisco?
The flight from Sungshan (TSA) to San Francisco International (SFO) takes Approximately 11 to 12 hours.
What does the Taipei to San Francisco flight path pass over?
The route tracks northeast from Taiwan across the East China Sea, passing north of Japan's Ryukyu Islands, then over the open North Pacific Ocean for the majority of the flight. The Aleutian Island chain may be visible as distant specks on a clear day near the northern arc of the great circle route. The final approach crosses the California coast near Point Reyes or the Marin Headlands before descending over the Bay.