San Francisco International Airport: Difference between revisions

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San Francisco International Airport is an international airport located in Northern California. It is located 13 miles south of San Francisco near the cities of San Bruno and Millbrae. It is a hub for United Airlines and is their gateway to Asia. It is the largest airport in Northern California and the second busiest airport in California, after [[Los Angeles International Airport]]. It features 4 runways, configured in pairs, perpendicularly.  
San Francisco International Airport is an international airport located in Northern California. It is located 13 miles south of San Francisco near the cities of San Bruno and Millbrae. It is a hub for United Airlines and is their gateway to Asia. It is the largest airport in Northern California and the second busiest airport in California, after [[Los Angeles International Airport]]. It features 4 runways, configured in pairs, perpendicularly.  


{{infobox|fullname=San Francisco<br />International Airport|location=San Francisco, California|iata=SFO|icao=KSFO|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.flysfo.com|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=SFO&ll=37.619534,-122.385035&spn=0.057675,0.118721&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=120.5 269.1|atcground=121.8|atcclearance=118.2|atcapproach=134.5 135.65 133.95|atcdeparture=120.9 (NW-E)<br />135.1 (SE-W)|atcatis=|atcunicom=122.95|psh=http://www.plane-spotting-hotels.com/index.php/plane-spotting-san-francisco/}}
{{infobox|fullname=San Francisco<br />International Airport|location=Millbrae, California|iata=SFO|icao=KSFO|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.flysfo.com|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=SFO&ll=37.619534,-122.385035&spn=0.057675,0.118721&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=120.5 269.1|atcground=121.8|atcclearance=118.2|atcapproach=134.5 135.65 133.95|atcdeparture=120.9 (NW-E)<br />135.1 (SE-W)|atcatis=|atcunicom=122.95|psh=http://www.plane-spotting-hotels.com/index.php/plane-spotting-san-francisco/}}


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===Terminal 2 SkyTerrace===
===Terminal 2 SkyTerrace===


This observation deck atop Terminal 2 is landside and open to the public with no boarding pass required. The terrace offers close views of the 10/28 runways, which in normal weather are used for most arrivals as well as heavy departures. the 1/19 runways are also visible. The entrance is behind the Starbucks in Terminal 2. Access is up two floors via staircase or a dedicated elevator. A security screening is required to access the terrace, but TSA restrictions on liquids don't apply.
This observation deck atop Terminal 2 is landside and open to the public with no boarding pass required. The terrace offers close views of the 28/10 runways, which in normal weather are used for most arrivals as well as heavy departures. The 1/19 runways are also visible. The entrance is behind the Starbucks in Terminal 2. Access is up two floors via staircase or a dedicated elevator. A security screening is required to access the terrace, but TSA restrictions on liquids don't apply.


For Winter 2021/2022, the SkyTerrace is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 10am until 6pm.
Typically, the SkyTerrace is only good for viewing purposes. For photography, apart from shooting the gates right in front of the terrace, the deck's double paned glass gives horrible reflections in photos. If you are a photographer, avoid this spot.
 
The SkyTerrace is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 10am until 6pm.


For more information, see https://www.flysfo.com/skyterrace
For more information, see https://www.flysfo.com/skyterrace


===Aviation Library===
=====Sample photo=====
 
[https://imgur.com/a/LoyhjtX Alaska Airlines E175 at gate D16]
The [http://www.flysfo.com/museum/aviation-museum-library San Francisco Airport Commission Aviation Library and Louis A. Turpen Aviation Museum] is within International Terminal A. It is open daily from 10am to 4:30pm except Saturday. Their collection is surprisingly extensive, though not all of it is on display.  It's worth stopping in if you're there when it's open.  Also, temporary rolling exhibitions exist security within the International Terminal as well as air-side Terminal 2 and 3. Public art from the San Francisco Arts Commission is on display throughout the terminals.


==Other Spotting Locations==
==Other Spotting Locations==
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===Bayfront Park===
===Bayfront Park===


Bayfront Park is located at the end of Millbrae Ave. along Bayshore Hwy.  It affords good views of all four runways, but it is somewhat distant (about one mile) from 10R/28L and 10L/28R, so you'll need a long lens for photos (about 700mm to get close to regional jets, 450mm should be good for the heavies). 1R/19L and 1R/19R are closer, however, a chain link fence was recently built next to the runways that limits photography.
Bayfront Park is by far the most iconic spot SFO has to offer. The spot is located at the end of Millbrae Ave., along Bayshore Hwy.  It affords great views of all four runways, but it is somewhat distant (about one mile) from 28L/10R and 28R/10L, so you'll need a long lens for photos (about 700mm to get close to regional jets, 450mm should be good for the heavies). 1R/19L and 1R/19R are closer, however, a chain link fence was recently built next to the runways that limits photography.
{{anetlink|694555}} (1R departure, before the fence was built)
{{anetlink|950203}} (28L arrival)
{{anetlink|2760813}} (Another 28 arrival)


To reach the park, take the Millbrae Ave. exit off US-101, and head north-east, towards the bay.  At the end of Millbrae Ave., make a right turn.  You will see the park on your left; the first left turn you can make takes you into the park's small, free parking lot. The large, divided section of the lot is a pay lot for the Marriott Hotel. There is alternate free parking across the street at the Westin, though it is only a few spaces (turn into the Westin parking lot, and take an immediate left before the lobby circle).  If all else fails, you can park nearly anywhere on the side-streets.
To reach the park, take the Millbrae Ave. exit off US-101, and head north-east, towards the bay.  At the end of Millbrae Ave., make a right turn.  You will see the park on your left. The most reliable parking lot is the [https://www.google.com/maps/place/San+Francisco+Airport+Marriott+Waterfront/@37.6029037,-122.3727338,182m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x808f77cf2fa435db:0xfc9ea2850cc2dd96!8m2!3d37.6032804!4d-122.3725062!16s%2Fg%2F11sb4t6qxq?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTEwNi4wIKX Marriott parking lot], first 15 minutes are free then paid by the hour.  


Once you have parked your car, you may want to walk towards the airport to the north end of the park for good views of 1L/19R and 1R/19L.  If your objective is to watch 10R/28L and 10L/28R, you can go pretty much wherever you like in the park.  If you want the San Francisco skyline in your photos, try walking south on the Bay Trail beyond the Marriott; at least 400mm (1.6x crop factor) will be required to get good skyline photos.
Once you have parked your car, you may want to walk towards the airport to the north end of the park for good views of 1L/19R and 1R/19L.  If your objective is to watch 28L/10R and 28R/10L, you can go pretty much wherever you like in the park.   
 
* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/3279660961/ San Francisco skyline photo with RWY 19 arrival]
* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/3264941872/ San Francisco skyline photo with RWY 28 arrival]


If you are traveling by BART or Caltrain, get off at Millbrae Station and walk east approximately one mile on Millbrae Ave (about 15 minutes walk).  Use the south side of the street, as the north side has no sidewalk across the US-101 over-crossing; be cautious of traffic, this is not a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood.
If you are traveling by BART or Caltrain, get off at Millbrae Station and walk east approximately one mile on Millbrae Ave (about 15 minutes walk).  Use the south side of the street, as the north side has no sidewalk across the US-101 over-crossing; be cautious of traffic, this is not a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood.


===New Long Term Parking===
=====Sample photos=====
[https://imgur.com/a/RNrm3R3 Eva Air B777-300ER taxiing next to runway 1R]


The new long term parking lot (operated by SFO) is near the north end of 10/28. It offers good side views of heavy departures off the 28's.  As you will be facing southwest, the lighting is best in the morning.  This location is a long distance from the rotation point, but heavy aircraft will be very close when they're putting their gear up.  With good binoculars or telephoto, it also offers a good overview of the north side of the airfield, including the United maintenance hangars and the cargo ramp.
[https://imgur.com/a/jOX5wJZ Lufthansa B747-8 touching down on Runway 28R]


* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/295067941/ Air France A340 departing 28, from Long Term Parking]
===Long Term Parking===
* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/295069526/ NWA 757 departing 28, from Long Term Parking]


Although the roof is covered in security cameras, the turret-style stairway is notably lacking.  Being chased away by security in this blind spot is rare.  If you feel guilty, park in the lot and pay the fee -- it is only a few dollars for an afternoon.
SFO's relatively new long term parking lot is near the north end of the 28/10 runways.  It offers good side views of heavy departures off the 28's.  As you will be facing southwest, the lighting is best in the morning, the afternoon will be very backlit.  This location is a long distance from the rotation point, but heavy aircraft will be very close when they're putting their gear up.  With good binoculars or a long telephoto camera lens, it also offers a good overview of the north side of the airfield, including the United maintenance hangars and the cargo ramp.


If you are traveling by air or BART, go to the arrivals level at SFO and board a free SFO long term parking bus.  They run at a five minute frequency and they will drop you off right where you need to be.  Use the same bus to return.
Although the roof is covered in security cameras, the turret-style stairway is notably lacking. Being chased away by security in this spot is rare. If you feel guilty, park in the lot and pay the fee.


===Cell Phone Lot===
If you are traveling by BART, get off at the SFO BART station, and catch the SFO AirTrain. They run at a four minute frequency and the parking lot has its own dedicated AirTrain station to get off at.


The cell phone Lot is located near the new Long Term Parking garage and directly under the path for 28R. It is slightly closer to the runways, and it is free to park in. The only downside is that you must stay with your vehicle and you may only park there for an hour. Here are the official rules for [http://www.flysfo.com/to-from/parking/cell-phone-waiting-lot/ the cell phone lot]. You will not be able to see airport operations from here, due to the fact that it is not raised like the long term parking garage. You will, though, be able to get good shots of aircraft just after rotation, as they are putting their gear up. If the Shoreline Seven departure is in use, aircraft will make a sharp right turn over the lot and it will make for good photos. 200mm with a 1.6x crop factor will be sufficient for this spot.
=====Sample photos=====
[https://imgur.com/a/OtIIRr5 British Airways B777-300ER rotating out of runway 28L]


* [https://www.flickr.com/photos/121119895@N06/18586234326/in/album-72157651930709243/ A Delta 737 making a sharp turn off of 28R, from Cell Phone Lot]
[https://imgur.com/a/rrSJ3r9 Avianca A320neo roaring out of runway 28L]
* [https://www.flickr.com/photos/121119895@N06/17991903833/in/album-72157651930709243/ A Virgin Atlantic 747 making a straight out departure, from Cell Phone Lot]


===San Bruno Ave Overpass===
===Within the airport===


Between McDonnell Road and San Bruno Ave, immediately east of US-101, there is a small grassy area that is well-positioned at the end of 10L/28R.  This is the longest runway at SFO, so in good weather, it is the first choice for departing large aircraft.  When 28R is in use, aircraft will pass very low above this spot; when 10L is in use (generally only in marginal weather), this spot has a good view of aircraft as they wait for the runway.  Runway 28L/10R is also visible, but is significantly obstructed by the rental car facility and the end of AirTrain.
There are a few great spots within the airport:


Unfortunately this location is almost nearly spoiled for the good photography because of numerous fences and light poles. You can still get some good shots, with effort. Note that because there is a lot of traffic in this area, you will be seeing through a lot of jetwash.  Anything more than about 500mm will be useless because of air quality.
'''Garage G AirTrain/BART Station''' -- Great views of the south side of International Terminal G. Take AirTrain to Garage G/BART and take the elevator up to parking level 9.  
* Sample photo - [https://imgur.com/a/96Ew8ml Air New Zealand B787-9 "All Blacks" livery resting at gate G7]


* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/2132591716/ JAL 747 departing 28L shortly after rotation, from San Bruno Ave]
'''Parking Garage A''' -- Great views of the west side of International Terminal A.
* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/exxonvaldez/2716419890/ Light trails of departures from the RWY 28's]
* Sample photo - [https://imgur.com/a/z5Ft1Ym Aeromexico B737 MAX 8 "Pride" livery resting at gate A5.]
* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/2131825267/ Closeup of JAL 747 departing 28L from San Bruno Ave]
* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/2221488237/ Various aircraft waiting for 10, from San Bruno Ave]


If you are traveling by car, take US-101 to the San Bruno Ave exit, go west of the freeway, and park on the street in the residential neighborhood, then walk over the freeway.
'''Terminal 2 Air Train stop''' -- There are two different parts of the AirTrain station that have openings, which means you don't need to shoot through glass. The West side gives a great view for rotation shots on the 28s. The East side gives great views for taxiing planes going to Terminal 1 and International Terminal A, as well as planes rolling down the 1s. This spot's best lighting is past 1pm in the winter and past 3pm in the summer.
* Sample photo - [https://imgur.com/a/bcxXm59 Alaska Airlines E175 taxiing to Terminal 1]
* Sample photo - [https://imgur.com/a/2seJJnO United Airlines A321neo departing off runway 1R]


If you are arriving by air or BART, take the free SFO long term parking bus from the arrivals (upper) level at SFO, get off at long term parking (see above), and walk south on Airport Blvd to San Bruno Ave, then west to the freeway overpass (overall about 15 minutes).  Alternatively, take AirTrain (Blue line) to the rental car center and walk north to the overpass (see map); this path is seemingly easier but takes just as long as long term parking due to various fences you have to walk around.  On the upside, you get to see the Internation G and cargo ramps from AirTrain.
===SF Bay Trail (Benihana)===


===Within the airport===
This spot is located further down the San Francisco Bay Trail right next to the Benihana Restaurant. It has a very similar view to Bayfront Park, but for photo purposes, this spot offers far less heat haze than Bayfront Park. However, there is not much a view of the 1s, but you can get some good photos of departing planes off of the 1s crossing in front of the SF skyline.


Various locations within the airport, but outside security, offer reasonable views:
====Sample photos====
[https://imgur.com/a/vycnAYJ Emirates A380-800 departing off runway 28L]


'''Parking Garage G''' -- 28 departures, and some ramp / taxiway A views. Take AirTrain to Garage G/BART and take the elevator up to parking level 9.  You will not have warning of RWY 28 departures, but you will be able to see them just after rotation -- bring a radio! {{anetlink|2747465}}
[https://imgur.com/a/kEFklNN SAS A330-300 about to touch down on runway 28R]


'''Parking Garage A''' -- Good shots of the west ramp of International Terminal A {{anetlink|2675995}}
===Coyote Point===


''' AirTrain station at the rental car facility (blue line)''' -- Very good views of runway 10 arrivals on bad weather days; however the windows are often very dirty.
Coyote Point is a beautiful park that sticks out into the bay giving great views of arrivals onto Runways 28L and 28R.  


'''AirTrain approaching terminal 1''' -- View of aircraft at the International A gates (Qantas, Virgin Atlantic, Air France, Emirates, etc).
====Coyote Point Beach====
The beach at Coyote point is ideal for golden hour. It gives stunning views of the bay next to SFO. Do be weary though, as there is a gun range further up the hill behind the beach, and often you will hear gunshots.


'''AirTrain Blue Line, between International G and West Field Road''' -- Views toward International G / United gates, and some parts of the cargo ramp (DHL, FedEx).
* Sample photo - [https://imgur.com/a/drNvutA Condor A330-900neo arriving at the peak of golden hour]


'''Terminal 2 Air Train stop''' -- Good rotation shots of the 28s, although there will be no warning-bring a scanner. At each end of the stop there is an opening so you do not have to shoot through glass. The opening on the north side of the station gives good shots of rotation and the SFO water towers. The south side will give shots of the thresholds of the 28s (with a long lens), the beginning of the 1s, and Terminal 2 ramp shots. {{anetlink|2739252}} {{anetlink|2416532}}
====Coyote Point Marina====
The marina at Coyote point is truly amazing. Arrivals on the 28s will come literally right over your head, and gives a really unique underbelly view for photographers.


===Fisherman's Park===
* Sample photo - [https://imgur.com/a/bwztdWr A rare Korean Air B747-8 flying overhead]
Fisherman's Park is a small area on the coast of the bay under the 28 approach path. The so-called "park" is really a gravel parking lot with small area by the water, used regularly by fishermen. This location is very similar to the popular Coyote Point Recreation Area location; the only differences being it is slightly closer to the threshold, but slightly farther south of the approach path. It is located on Airport Blvd. in Burlingame. A 400mm lens (full frame) will be more than sufficient for heavies, but a longer lens is needed for regionals. It is not the best area at mid-day times, due to the fact that you are shooting above you, but mornings and afternoons will yield great photos.


==Locations to Avoid==
==Locations to Avoid==


Obviously, do not loiter on streets within the airport grounds -- you will be stopped and questioned. Occasionally police may interfere at San Bruno Ave and Garage G, but it has never been severe. Also some reports of being harassed in the Signature FBO area, even if you have real business there. Be discreet.
===Westfield Garage===
 
Westfield Garage was once one of the greatest spots in all of SFO, giving amazing up close views of departing aircraft on the 28s, taxiing aircraft, and views of Terminal 3 and International Terminal A. Unfortunately, SFO security started to crack down on spotters, and once SFO's SkyTerrace was opened, when you would fill out a spotter permit, you would get an automatic email saying that Westfield Garage was not allowed to be visited. There have been many reports of people being stopped by police. There are still people who go there, and technically, you still can, but it is still very risky to do. If you do plan to go, do not use a lens any longer than 300mm, and try to stay on the floor below the top floor, to remain more discreet.
 
=====Sample photos=====
[https://imgur.com/a/ajzuXP6 Lufthansa B747-8 "Retro" livery lifting off runway 28L]
 
[https://imgur.com/a/CCD0e9J United Airlines B787-9 getting tugged]


==Spotting Locations Map==
==Spotting Locations Map==


<display_map>
<display_map>
37.605265,-122.376661~Bayfront Park
37.6187267208939, -122.39333554447713~International Terminal G Observation Terrace
37.635894,-122.400111~New Long Term Parking
37.6175079, -122.3835016~Terminal 2 SkyTerrace
37.631529,-122.401141~San Bruno Ave Overpass
37.605210, -122.376591~Bayfront Park
37.616748, -122.384576~Terminal 2 Air Train Stop
37.635103, -122.401886~Long Term Parking
37.633222,-122.400178~Cell Phone Lot
37.6159213, -122.3923938~Garage G AirTrain/BART Station
37.613781, -122.391982~Garage A
37.6139406258863, -122.39197653255675~Parking Garage A
37.615855, -122.392617~Garage G/BART
37.61706187190578, -122.38471821889077~Terminal 2 Air Train Stop East
37.628242, -122.401189~Rental Car Facility
37.61645909321501, -122.38446455974687~Terminal 2 Air Train Stop West
37.591958, -122.334662~Fisherman's Park
37.598408912099, -122.36429374419507~SF Bay Trail (Benihana)
37.5894667847485, -122.32613310632998~Coyote Point Beach
37.59122246288525, -122.31872529953121~Coyote Point Marina
37.62317473432498, -122.39293061187969~Westfield Garage (avoid)
</display_map>
</display_map>


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|Alaska Airlines
|Alaska Airlines
|Boeing 737-700, Boeing 737-800, Boeing 737-900, Boeing 737 MAX 9, Embraer E175
|Boeing 737-700/800/900/MAX 9, Embraer E175
|[[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[San Diego International Airport]], [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]], [[New York John F. Kennedy International Airport]], [[Harry Reid International Airport]], [[John Wayne Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]], [[Chicago O'hare International Airport]], [[Newark Liberty International Airport]], [[Portland International Airport]], [[Salt Lake City International Airport (begins December 19, 2024)]], [[Boston Logan International Airport]], [[Hollywood Burbank Airport]], [[Washington Dulles International Airport]], [[Palm Springs International Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]], [[Daniel K. Inouye International Airport]], [[Austin-Bergstrom International Airport]], [[Boise International Airport]], [[Kahului Airport]], [[Redmond Municipal Airport]], [[Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (begins November 21, 2024)]], [[Orlando International Airport]], [[Los Cabos International Airport]], [[Spokane International Airport]], [[Puerto Vallarta International Airport]], [[Cancun International Airport]], [[Tampa International Airport (begins November 21, 2024)]], [[Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (begins February 15, 2025)]], [[Paine Field]], [[Jackson Hole Airport (begins May 17, 2025)]], [[Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (begins May 15, 2025)]], [[Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (begins December 21, 2024)]], [[Loreto International Airport (begins January 11, 2025)]], [[Mazatlán International Airport]], [[Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport]]
|[[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[San Diego International Airport]], [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]], [[New York John F. Kennedy International Airport]], [[Harry Reid International Airport]], [[John Wayne Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]], [[Chicago O'hare International Airport]], [[Newark Liberty International Airport]], [[Portland International Airport]], [[Salt Lake City International Airport]], [[Boston Logan International Airport]], [[Hollywood Burbank Airport]], [[Washington Dulles International Airport]], [[Palm Springs International Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]], [[Daniel K. Inouye International Airport]], [[Austin-Bergstrom International Airport]], [[Boise International Airport]], [[Kahului Airport]], [[Redmond Municipal Airport]], [[Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]], [[Orlando International Airport]], [[Los Cabos International Airport]], [[Spokane International Airport]], [[Puerto Vallarta International Airport]], [[Cancun International Airport]], [[Tampa International Airport]], [[Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport]], [[Paine Field]], [[Jackson Hole Airport]], [[Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport]], [[Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport]], [[Loreto International Airport]], [[Mazatlán International Airport]], [[Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport]]
|-
|-
|American Airlines
|American Airlines
|Airbus A321/A321neo, Boeing 737-800/MAX 8
|Airbus A319-100, Airbus A320-200, Airbus A321/A321neo, Boeing 737-800/MAX 8
|[[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[New York John F. Kennedy International Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]], [[Chicago O'hare International Airport]], [[Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport]], [[Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport]], [[Miami International Airport]], [[Charlotte Douglas International Airport]], [[Philadelphia International Airport]]
|[[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[New York John F. Kennedy International Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]], [[Chicago O'hare International Airport]], [[Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport]], [[Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport]], [[Miami International Airport]], [[Charlotte Douglas International Airport]], [[Philadelphia International Airport]]
|-
|-
|Delta Air Lines
|Delta Air Lines
|Airbus A220-100/300, Airbus A321/A321neo, Boeing 737-800/900, Boeing 757-200/300, Boeing 767-300
|Airbus A220-100/300, Airbus A321/A321neo, Boeing 737-800/900, Boeing 757-200/300, Boeing 767-300
|[[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]], [[New York John F. Kennedy International Airport]], [[Salt Lake City International Airport]], [[Boston Logan International Airport]], [[Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport]], [[Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport]], [[Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport]], [[Austin-Bergstrom International Airport]]
|[[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]], [[New York John F. Kennedy International Airport]], [[Salt Lake City International Airport]], [[Boston Logan International Airport]], [[Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport]], [[Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport]], [[Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport]], [[Austin-Bergstrom International Airport]]
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|jetBlue
|jetBlue
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|United Airlines
|United Airlines
|Airbus A319/A320/A321neo, Boeing 737-700/800/900/MAX 8/MAX 9, Boeing 767-300, Boeing 777-200/300, Boeing 787-8/9/10, Bombardier CRJ-200/700/900, Embraer E175
|Airbus A319-100, Airbus A320-200, Airbus A321neo, Boeing 737-700/800/900/MAX 8/MAX 9, Boeing 767-300, Boeing 777-200/300, Boeing 787-8/9/10, Bombardier CRJ-200/700/900, Embraer E175
|[[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[San Diego International Airport]], [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]], [[Harry Reid International Airport]], [[Denver International Airport]], [[John Wayne Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]], [[Chicago O'hare International Airport]], [[Newark Liberty International Airport]], [[Portland International Airport]], [[Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport]], [[Salt Lake City International Airport]], [[Boston Logan International Airport]], [[Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport]], [[Hollywood Burbank Airport]], [[George Bush Intercontinental Airport]], [[Washington Dulles International Airport]], [[Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport]], [[Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County International Airport]], [[Vancouver International Airport]], [[Palm Springs International Airport]], [[Daniel K. Inouye International Airport]], [[Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport]], [[Toronto Pearson International Airport]], [[Austin-Bergstrom International Airport]], [[Ontario International Airport]], [[Boise International Airport]], [[London Heathrow Airport]], [[Miami International Airport]], [[Reno–Tahoe International Airport]], [[Incheon International Airport]], [[Philadelphia International Airport]], [[Kahului Airport]], [[California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport]], [[Mexico City International Airport]], [[Tokyo Narita International Airport]], [[San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport]], [[Singapore Changi International Airport]], [[Sacramento International Airport]], [[Redmond Municipal Airport]], [[Santa Barbara Municipal Airport]], [[Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]], [[Orlando International Airport]], [[Hong Kong International Airport]], [[Los Cabos International Airport]], [[Eugene Airport]], [[Fresno Yosemite International Airport]], [[Tokyo Haneda International Airport]], [[Redding Regional Airport]], [[Tucson International Airport]], [[Spokane International Airport]], [[Rogue Valley International Airport]], [[Puerto Vallarta International Airport]], [[Frankfurt International Airport]], [[St. Louis Lambert International Airport]], [[Cancun International Airport]], [[Meadows Field Airport]], [[Paris Charles De Gaulle International Airport]], [[Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport]], [[Monterey Regional Airport]], [[Ninoy Aquino International Airport]], [[Monterey Regional Airport]], [[Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport]], [[Munich International Airport]], [[Omaha Airport]], [[Tri-Cities Airport]], [[Albuquerque International Airport]], [[San Antonio International Airport]], [[Albuquerque International Airport]], [[Auckland International Airport]], [[Monterrey International Airport]], [[Tampa International Airport]], [[Nashville International Airport]], [[Baltimore/Washington International Airport]], [[Cleveland International Airport]], [[Indianapolis International Airport]], [[Pittsburgh International Airport]], [[Raleigh-Durham International Airport]], [[Indira Gandhi International Airport]], [[Shanghai Pudong International Airport]], [[Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport]], [[Calgary International Airport]], [[Beijing Capital International Airport]], [[Lihue Airport]], [[Albuquerque International Airport]], [[Aspen Pitkin County Airport]], [[Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport]], [[Glacier Park International Airport]], [[Kansai International Airport]], [[Kona International Airport]], [[
|[[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[San Diego International Airport]], [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]], [[Harry Reid International Airport]], [[Denver International Airport]], [[John Wayne Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]], [[Chicago O'hare International Airport]], [[Newark Liberty International Airport]], [[Portland International Airport]], [[Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport]], [[Salt Lake City International Airport]], [[Boston Logan International Airport]], [[Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport]], [[Hollywood Burbank Airport]], [[George Bush Intercontinental Airport]], [[Washington Dulles International Airport]], [[Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport]], [[Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County International Airport]], [[Vancouver International Airport]], [[Palm Springs International Airport]], [[Daniel K. Inouye International Airport]], [[Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport]], [[Toronto Pearson International Airport]], [[Austin-Bergstrom International Airport]], [[Ontario International Airport]], [[Boise International Airport]], [[London Heathrow Airport]], [[Miami International Airport]], [[Reno–Tahoe International Airport]], [[Incheon International Airport]], [[Philadelphia International Airport]], [[Kahului Airport]], [[California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport]], [[Mexico City International Airport]], [[Tokyo Narita International Airport]], [[San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport]], [[Singapore Changi Airport]], [[Sacramento International Airport]], [[Redmond Municipal Airport]], [[Santa Barbara Municipal Airport]], [[Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]], [[Orlando International Airport]], [[Hong Kong Airport]], [[Los Cabos International Airport]], [[Eugene Airport]], [[Fresno Yosemite International Airport]], [[Tokyo Haneda International Airport]], [[Redding Regional Airport]], [[Tucson International Airport]], [[Spokane International Airport]], [[Rogue Valley International Airport]], [[Puerto Vallarta International Airport]], [[Frankfurt Main Airport]], [[St. Louis Lambert International Airport]], [[Cancun International Airport]], [[Meadows Field Airport]], [[Paris Charles De Gaulle International Airport]], [[Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport]], [[Monterey Regional Airport]], [[Ninoy Aquino International Airport]], [[Monterey Regional Airport]], [[Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport]], [[Munich Airport]], [[Omaha Airport]], [[Tri-Cities Airport]], [[Albuquerque International Airport]], [[San Antonio International Airport]], [[Albuquerque International Airport]], [[Auckland Airport]], [[Monterrey International Airport]], [[Tampa International Airport]], [[Nashville International Airport]], [[Baltimore/Washington International Airport]], [[Cleveland International Airport]], [[Indianapolis International Airport]], [[Pittsburgh International Airport]], [[Raleigh-Durham International Airport]], [[Indira Gandhi International Airport]], [[Shanghai Pudong International Airport]], [[Sydney Airport]], [[Calgary International Airport]], [[Beijing Capital International Airport]], [[Lihue Airport]], [[Albuquerque International Airport]], [[Aspen Pitkin County Airport]], [[Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport]], [[Glacier Park International Airport]], [[Kansai International Airport]], [[Kona International Airport]], [[Fa'a'ā International Airport]], [[Melbourne International Airport]], [[John Glenn Columbus International Airport]], [[Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport]], [[Zurich Airport]], [[Amsterdam Schiphol Airport]], [[Southwest Oregon Regional Airport]], [[Southwest Florida International Airport]], [[Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport]], [[Christchurch International Airport]], [[Jackson Hole Airport]], [[Montrose Regional Airport]], [[Friedman Memorial Airport]], [[Bishop International Airport]], [[Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport]], [[Barcelona International Airport]], [[Eagle County Regional Airport]], [[Yampa Valley Regional Airport]], [[Rome Fiumicino Airport]], [[Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport]], [[Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport]], [[Juan Santamaría International Airport]]
Fa'a'ā International Airport]], [[Melbourne International Airport]], [[John Glenn Columbus International Airport]], [[Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport]], [[Zurich International Airport]], [[Amsterdam Schiphol International Airport]], [[Southwest Oregon Regional Airport]], [[Southwest Florida International Airport]], [[Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport]], [[Christchurch International Airport]], [[Jackson Hole Airport]], [[Montrose Regional Airport]], [[Friedman Memorial Airport]], [[Bishop International Airport]], [[Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport]], [[Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat International Airport]], [[Eagle County Regional Airport]], [[Yampa Valley Regional Airport]], [[Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino International Airport]], [[Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport]], [[Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport]], [[Juan Santamaría International Airport]]
|}
|}


===International Terminal A===
===International Terminal A===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|'''Airline'''
|'''Aircraft'''
|'''Destinations'''
|-
|Aer Lingus
|Airbus A330-200/300
|[[Dublin Airport]]
|-
|Aeroméxico
|Boeing 737-800/MAX 8/MAX 9
|[[Guadalajara Airport]], [[Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport]]
|-
|Air France
|Airbus A350-900, Boeing 777-300
|[[Paris Charles de Gaulle International Airport]]
|-
|Air India
|Boeing 777-200LR/300
|[[Kempegowda International Airport]], [[Indira Gandhi International Airport]], [[Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport]]
|-
|Air Premia
|Boeing 787-9
|[[Incheon International Airport]]
|-
|Avianca
|Airbus A320neo
|[[El Salvador International Airport]]
|-
|British Airways
|Airbus A380-800, Boeing 777-300
|[[London Heathrow Airport]]
|-
|Cathay Pacific
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Hong Kong Airport]]
|-
|China Airlines
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport]]
|-
|China Eastern
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Shanghai Pudong International Airport]]
|-
|China Southern
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport]], [[Wuhan Tianhe International Airport]]
|-
|Condor
|Airbus A330-900neo
|[[Frankfurt Main Airport]]
|-
|Copa Airlines
|Boeing 737 MAX 9
|[[Tocumen International Airport]]
|-
|Emirates
|Airbus A380-300
|[[Dubai International Airport]]
|-
|Eva Air
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport]]
|-
|Flair Airlines
|Boeing 737-800/MAX 8
|[[Vancouver International Airport]]
|-
|French Bee
|Airbus A350-900
|[[Fa'a'ā International Airport]], [[Paris Orly Airport]]
|-
|Frontier Airlines
|Airbus A320/A320neo, Airbus A321/A321neo
|[[Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport]], [[Hollywood Burbank Airport]], [[Dallas Fort Worth International Airport]], [[Denver International Airport]], [[Eagle County Regional Airport]], [[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[Harry Reid International Airport]], [[Ontario International Airport]], [[John Wayne Airport]], [[Palm Springs International Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]], [[Portland International Airport]], [[Salt Lake City International Airport]], [[San Diego International Airport]], [[Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport]], [[Orlando International Airport]]
|-
|Hawaiian Airlines
|Airbus A330-200, Airbus A321neo
|[[Daniel K. Inouye International Airport]], [[Kahului Airport]]
|-
|Iberia
|Airbus A330-200/300, Airbus A350-900
|[[Madrid–Barajas Airport]]
|-
|ITA Airways
|Airbus A330-900neo, Airbus A350-900
|[[Rome Fiumicino Airport]]
|-
|Japan Airlines
|Boeing 777-300, Boeing 787-9
|[[Tokyo Haneda Airport]], [[Tokyo Narita Airport]]
|-
|KLM
|Boeing 777-200/300, Boeing 787-9/10
|[[Amsterdam Schiphol Airport]]
|-
|Korean Air
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Incheon International Airport]]
|-
|LEVEL
|Airbus A330-200
|[[Barcelona International Airport]]
|-
|Philippine Airlines
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Ninoy Aquino International Airport]]
|-
|Porter Airlines
|Embraer E195-E2
|[[Toronto Pearson International Airport]], [[Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport]]
|-
|Qantas
|Boeing 787-9
|[[Sydney Airport]]
|-
|Qatar Airways
|Airbus A350-1000
|[[Hamad International Airport]]
|-
|Starlux
|Airbus A350-900
|[[Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport]]
|-
|Sun Country Airlines
|Boeing 737-800
|[[Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport]]
|-
|TAP Air Portugal
|Airbus A330-900neo
|[[Lisbon Airport]]
|-
|Turkish Airlines
|Airbus A350-900, Boeing 777-300, Boeing 787-9
|[[Istanbul Airport]]
|-
|Vietnam Airlines
|Airbus A350-900
|[[Tan Son Nhat International Airport]]
|-
|Virgin Atlantic
|Boeing 787-9
|[[London Heathrow Airport]]
|-
|WestJet
|Boeing 737-800/MAX 8
|[[Calgary International Airport]], [[Edmonton International Airport]], [[Vancouver International Airport]]
|-
|ZIPAIR
|Boeing 787-8
|[[Tokyo Narita Airport]]
|}
===International Terminal G===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|'''Airline'''
|'''Aircraft'''
|'''Destinations'''
|-
|Air China
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Beijing Capital International Airport]]
|-
|Air New Zealand
|Boeing 787-9
|[[Auckland Airport]]
|-
|All Nippon Airways (ANA)
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Tokyo Haneda Airport]], [[Tokyo Narita Airport]]
|-
|Asiana Airlines
|Airbus A350-900
|[[Incheon International Airport]]
|-
|Fiji Airways
|Airbus A350-900
|[[Nadi International Airport]]
|-
|Lufthansa
|Airbus A350-900, Boeing 747-8
|[[Frankfurt Main Airport]], [[Munich Airport]]
|-
|Scandinavian Airlines (SAS)
|Airbus A330-300
|[[Copenhagen Kastrup Airport]]
|-
|Singapore Airlines
|Airbus A350-900
|[[Singapore Changi Airport]]
|-
|Swiss International Airlines
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Zurich Airport]]
|-
|United Airlines
|Airbus A319-100, Airbus A320-200, Airbus A321neo, Boeing 737-700/800/900/MAX 8/MAX 9, Boeing 767-300, Boeing 777-200/300, Boeing 787-8/9/10, Bombardier CRJ-200/700/900, Embraer E175
|[[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[San Diego International Airport]], [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]], [[Harry Reid International Airport]], [[Denver International Airport]], [[John Wayne Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]], [[Chicago O'hare International Airport]], [[Newark Liberty International Airport]], [[Portland International Airport]], [[Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport]], [[Salt Lake City International Airport]], [[Boston Logan International Airport]], [[Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport]], [[Hollywood Burbank Airport]], [[George Bush Intercontinental Airport]], [[Washington Dulles International Airport]], [[Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport]], [[Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County International Airport]], [[Vancouver International Airport]], [[Palm Springs International Airport]], [[Daniel K. Inouye International Airport]], [[Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport]], [[Toronto Pearson International Airport]], [[Austin-Bergstrom International Airport]], [[Ontario International Airport]], [[Boise International Airport]], [[London Heathrow Airport]], [[Miami International Airport]], [[Reno–Tahoe International Airport]], [[Incheon International Airport]], [[Philadelphia International Airport]], [[Kahului Airport]], [[California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport]], [[Mexico City International Airport]], [[Tokyo Narita International Airport]], [[San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport]], [[Singapore Changi Airport]], [[Sacramento International Airport]], [[Redmond Municipal Airport]], [[Santa Barbara Municipal Airport]], [[Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]], [[Orlando International Airport]], [[Hong Kong Airport]], [[Los Cabos International Airport]], [[Eugene Airport]], [[Fresno Yosemite International Airport]], [[Tokyo Haneda International Airport]], [[Redding Regional Airport]], [[Tucson International Airport]], [[Spokane International Airport]], [[Rogue Valley International Airport]], [[Puerto Vallarta International Airport]], [[Frankfurt Main Airport]], [[St. Louis Lambert International Airport]], [[Cancun International Airport]], [[Meadows Field Airport]], [[Paris Charles De Gaulle International Airport]], [[Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport]], [[Monterey Regional Airport]], [[Ninoy Aquino International Airport]], [[Monterey Regional Airport]], [[Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport]], [[Munich Airport]], [[Omaha Airport]], [[Tri-Cities Airport]], [[Albuquerque International Airport]], [[San Antonio International Airport]], [[Albuquerque International Airport]], [[Auckland Airport]], [[Monterrey International Airport]], [[Tampa International Airport]], [[Nashville International Airport]], [[Baltimore/Washington International Airport]], [[Cleveland International Airport]], [[Indianapolis International Airport]], [[Pittsburgh International Airport]], [[Raleigh-Durham International Airport]], [[Indira Gandhi International Airport]], [[Shanghai Pudong International Airport]], [[Sydney Airport]], [[Calgary International Airport]], [[Beijing Capital International Airport]], [[Lihue Airport]], [[Albuquerque International Airport]], [[Aspen Pitkin County Airport]], [[Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport]], [[Glacier Park International Airport]], [[Kansai International Airport]], [[Kona International Airport]], [[Fa'a'ā International Airport]], [[Melbourne International Airport]], [[John Glenn Columbus International Airport]], [[Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport]], [[Zurich Airport]], [[Amsterdam Schiphol Airport]], [[Southwest Oregon Regional Airport]], [[Southwest Florida International Airport]], [[Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport]], [[Christchurch International Airport]], [[Jackson Hole Airport]], [[Montrose Regional Airport]], [[Friedman Memorial Airport]], [[Bishop International Airport]], [[Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport]], [[Barcelona International Airport]], [[Eagle County Regional Airport]], [[Yampa Valley Regional Airport]], [[Rome Fiumicino Airport]], [[Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport]], [[Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport]], [[Juan Santamaría International Airport]]
|}
**As of November 2024


==Facilities and Transportation==
==Facilities and Transportation==

Latest revision as of 20:19, 12 November 2024

Continent: North America Country: United States Region: California

San Francisco International Airport is an international airport located in Northern California. It is located 13 miles south of San Francisco near the cities of San Bruno and Millbrae. It is a hub for United Airlines and is their gateway to Asia. It is the largest airport in Northern California and the second busiest airport in California, after Los Angeles International Airport. It features 4 runways, configured in pairs, perpendicularly.


San Francisco
International Airport
Location Millbrae, California
IATA code SFO
ICAO code KSFO
Airport type Commercial
Website http://www.flysfo.com
Overview map Google Maps
Communications
Tower 120.5 269.1
Ground 121.8
Clearance 118.2
Approach 134.5 135.65 133.95
Departure120.9 (NW-E)
135.1 (SE-W)
ATIS
Departure122.95
Plane Spotting Hotels guide


Official Spotting Locations

International Terminal G Observation Terrace

In February 2019, an outdoor observation terrace opened at the end of Concourse G of the International Terminal. It is airside and easily accessible to passengers flying out of that concourse as well as Terminal 3. Passengers with a same day boarding pass for a flight from another terminal should be able to access the terrace as well, though it will require clearing security a second time to reach the gate for the departing flight. Open daily from 7:00am to 11:30pm.

The terrace located at the end of the concourse, atop the boarding lounges for gates G99 and G101. It also provides a good view of aircraft as they enter and exit the ramp for Concourse G and odd-numbered gates 81-89 in Terminal 3. The entrance is next to Joe & The Juice. Be aware that you will be shooting through glass if you're taking photos.

Terminal 2 SkyTerrace

This observation deck atop Terminal 2 is landside and open to the public with no boarding pass required. The terrace offers close views of the 28/10 runways, which in normal weather are used for most arrivals as well as heavy departures. The 1/19 runways are also visible. The entrance is behind the Starbucks in Terminal 2. Access is up two floors via staircase or a dedicated elevator. A security screening is required to access the terrace, but TSA restrictions on liquids don't apply.

Typically, the SkyTerrace is only good for viewing purposes. For photography, apart from shooting the gates right in front of the terrace, the deck's double paned glass gives horrible reflections in photos. If you are a photographer, avoid this spot.

The SkyTerrace is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 10am until 6pm.

For more information, see https://www.flysfo.com/skyterrace

Sample photo

Alaska Airlines E175 at gate D16

Other Spotting Locations

Bayfront Park

Bayfront Park is by far the most iconic spot SFO has to offer. The spot is located at the end of Millbrae Ave., along Bayshore Hwy. It affords great views of all four runways, but it is somewhat distant (about one mile) from 28L/10R and 28R/10L, so you'll need a long lens for photos (about 700mm to get close to regional jets, 450mm should be good for the heavies). 1R/19L and 1R/19R are closer, however, a chain link fence was recently built next to the runways that limits photography.

To reach the park, take the Millbrae Ave. exit off US-101, and head north-east, towards the bay. At the end of Millbrae Ave., make a right turn. You will see the park on your left. The most reliable parking lot is the Marriott parking lot, first 15 minutes are free then paid by the hour.

Once you have parked your car, you may want to walk towards the airport to the north end of the park for good views of 1L/19R and 1R/19L. If your objective is to watch 28L/10R and 28R/10L, you can go pretty much wherever you like in the park.

If you are traveling by BART or Caltrain, get off at Millbrae Station and walk east approximately one mile on Millbrae Ave (about 15 minutes walk). Use the south side of the street, as the north side has no sidewalk across the US-101 over-crossing; be cautious of traffic, this is not a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood.

Sample photos

Eva Air B777-300ER taxiing next to runway 1R

Lufthansa B747-8 touching down on Runway 28R

Long Term Parking

SFO's relatively new long term parking lot is near the north end of the 28/10 runways. It offers good side views of heavy departures off the 28's. As you will be facing southwest, the lighting is best in the morning, the afternoon will be very backlit. This location is a long distance from the rotation point, but heavy aircraft will be very close when they're putting their gear up. With good binoculars or a long telephoto camera lens, it also offers a good overview of the north side of the airfield, including the United maintenance hangars and the cargo ramp.

Although the roof is covered in security cameras, the turret-style stairway is notably lacking. Being chased away by security in this spot is rare. If you feel guilty, park in the lot and pay the fee.

If you are traveling by BART, get off at the SFO BART station, and catch the SFO AirTrain. They run at a four minute frequency and the parking lot has its own dedicated AirTrain station to get off at.

Sample photos

British Airways B777-300ER rotating out of runway 28L

Avianca A320neo roaring out of runway 28L

Within the airport

There are a few great spots within the airport:

Garage G AirTrain/BART Station -- Great views of the south side of International Terminal G. Take AirTrain to Garage G/BART and take the elevator up to parking level 9.

Parking Garage A -- Great views of the west side of International Terminal A.

Terminal 2 Air Train stop -- There are two different parts of the AirTrain station that have openings, which means you don't need to shoot through glass. The West side gives a great view for rotation shots on the 28s. The East side gives great views for taxiing planes going to Terminal 1 and International Terminal A, as well as planes rolling down the 1s. This spot's best lighting is past 1pm in the winter and past 3pm in the summer.

SF Bay Trail (Benihana)

This spot is located further down the San Francisco Bay Trail right next to the Benihana Restaurant. It has a very similar view to Bayfront Park, but for photo purposes, this spot offers far less heat haze than Bayfront Park. However, there is not much a view of the 1s, but you can get some good photos of departing planes off of the 1s crossing in front of the SF skyline.

Sample photos

Emirates A380-800 departing off runway 28L

SAS A330-300 about to touch down on runway 28R

Coyote Point

Coyote Point is a beautiful park that sticks out into the bay giving great views of arrivals onto Runways 28L and 28R.

Coyote Point Beach

The beach at Coyote point is ideal for golden hour. It gives stunning views of the bay next to SFO. Do be weary though, as there is a gun range further up the hill behind the beach, and often you will hear gunshots.

Coyote Point Marina

The marina at Coyote point is truly amazing. Arrivals on the 28s will come literally right over your head, and gives a really unique underbelly view for photographers.

Locations to Avoid

Westfield Garage

Westfield Garage was once one of the greatest spots in all of SFO, giving amazing up close views of departing aircraft on the 28s, taxiing aircraft, and views of Terminal 3 and International Terminal A. Unfortunately, SFO security started to crack down on spotters, and once SFO's SkyTerrace was opened, when you would fill out a spotter permit, you would get an automatic email saying that Westfield Garage was not allowed to be visited. There have been many reports of people being stopped by police. There are still people who go there, and technically, you still can, but it is still very risky to do. If you do plan to go, do not use a lens any longer than 300mm, and try to stay on the floor below the top floor, to remain more discreet.

Sample photos

Lufthansa B747-8 "Retro" livery lifting off runway 28L

United Airlines B787-9 getting tugged

Spotting Locations Map

Loading map...

Regular Traffic

Normal traffic flow has most departures using runways 1L/1R and arrivals using 28L/28R. European and trans-Pacific depart 28L/28R.

During times of winds out of the south or southeast, arrivals use 19R while departures use 10L/10R. When the crosswind component for 10L/R exceeds 20kts, departures use 19L/R. This is most often during rainy winter weather, but also occurs on the day just after rainy weather.

Occasionally during strong northerly winds, aircraft will fly the approach to 28L/R and circle to 1R. This happens approximately twice a year, so don't hold out hope.

Airlines

Harvey Milk Terminal 1

Airline Aircraft Destinations
Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-700/800/900/MAX 9, Embraer E175 Los Angeles International Airport, San Diego International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, New York John F. Kennedy International Airport, Harry Reid International Airport, John Wayne Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Chicago O'hare International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, Portland International Airport, Salt Lake City International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, Hollywood Burbank Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, Palm Springs International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Boise International Airport, Kahului Airport, Redmond Municipal Airport, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Orlando International Airport, Los Cabos International Airport, Spokane International Airport, Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Cancun International Airport, Tampa International Airport, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, Paine Field, Jackson Hole Airport, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, Loreto International Airport, Mazatlán International Airport, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport
American Airlines Airbus A319-100, Airbus A320-200, Airbus A321/A321neo, Boeing 737-800/MAX 8 Los Angeles International Airport, New York John F. Kennedy International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Chicago O'hare International Airport, Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport, Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport, Miami International Airport, Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Philadelphia International Airport
Delta Air Lines Airbus A220-100/300, Airbus A321/A321neo, Boeing 737-800/900, Boeing 757-200/300, Boeing 767-300 Los Angeles International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, New York John F. Kennedy International Airport, Salt Lake City International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
jetBlue Airbus A321/A321neo New York John F. Kennedy International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-700/800/MAX 8 Los Angeles International Airport, San Diego International Airport, Harry Reid International Airport, Denver International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, St. Louis Lambert International Airport, Chicago Midway International Airport

Terminal 2

Airline Aircraft Destinations
Air Canada Airbus A320, Boeing 737 MAX 8, Bombardier CRJ-900 Vancouver International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, Edmonton International Airport
Breeze Airways Airbus A220-300 Provo Airport, San Bernardino International Airport, Richmond International Airport, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, Louisville International Airport

Terminal 3

Airline Aircraft Destinations
United Airlines Airbus A319-100, Airbus A320-200, Airbus A321neo, Boeing 737-700/800/900/MAX 8/MAX 9, Boeing 767-300, Boeing 777-200/300, Boeing 787-8/9/10, Bombardier CRJ-200/700/900, Embraer E175 Los Angeles International Airport, San Diego International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Harry Reid International Airport, Denver International Airport, John Wayne Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Chicago O'hare International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, Portland International Airport, Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport, Salt Lake City International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Hollywood Burbank Airport, George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County International Airport, Vancouver International Airport, Palm Springs International Airport, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Ontario International Airport, Boise International Airport, London Heathrow Airport, Miami International Airport, Reno–Tahoe International Airport, Incheon International Airport, Philadelphia International Airport, Kahului Airport, California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport, Mexico City International Airport, Tokyo Narita International Airport, San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, Singapore Changi Airport, Sacramento International Airport, Redmond Municipal Airport, Santa Barbara Municipal Airport, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Orlando International Airport, Hong Kong Airport, Los Cabos International Airport, Eugene Airport, Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Tokyo Haneda International Airport, Redding Regional Airport, Tucson International Airport, Spokane International Airport, Rogue Valley International Airport, Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Frankfurt Main Airport, St. Louis Lambert International Airport, Cancun International Airport, Meadows Field Airport, Paris Charles De Gaulle International Airport, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Monterey Regional Airport, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Monterey Regional Airport, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, Munich Airport, Omaha Airport, Tri-Cities Airport, Albuquerque International Airport, San Antonio International Airport, Albuquerque International Airport, Auckland Airport, Monterrey International Airport, Tampa International Airport, Nashville International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Airport, Cleveland International Airport, Indianapolis International Airport, Pittsburgh International Airport, Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Indira Gandhi International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Sydney Airport, Calgary International Airport, Beijing Capital International Airport, Lihue Airport, Albuquerque International Airport, Aspen Pitkin County Airport, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, Glacier Park International Airport, Kansai International Airport, Kona International Airport, Fa'a'ā International Airport, Melbourne International Airport, John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, Zurich Airport, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Southwest Oregon Regional Airport, Southwest Florida International Airport, Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, Christchurch International Airport, Jackson Hole Airport, Montrose Regional Airport, Friedman Memorial Airport, Bishop International Airport, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Barcelona International Airport, Eagle County Regional Airport, Yampa Valley Regional Airport, Rome Fiumicino Airport, Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport, Juan Santamaría International Airport

International Terminal A

Airline Aircraft Destinations
Aer Lingus Airbus A330-200/300 Dublin Airport
Aeroméxico Boeing 737-800/MAX 8/MAX 9 Guadalajara Airport, Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport
Air France Airbus A350-900, Boeing 777-300 Paris Charles de Gaulle International Airport
Air India Boeing 777-200LR/300 Kempegowda International Airport, Indira Gandhi International Airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
Air Premia Boeing 787-9 Incheon International Airport
Avianca Airbus A320neo El Salvador International Airport
British Airways Airbus A380-800, Boeing 777-300 London Heathrow Airport
Cathay Pacific Boeing 777-300 Hong Kong Airport
China Airlines Boeing 777-300 Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport
China Eastern Boeing 777-300 Shanghai Pudong International Airport
China Southern Boeing 777-300 Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, Wuhan Tianhe International Airport
Condor Airbus A330-900neo Frankfurt Main Airport
Copa Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 Tocumen International Airport
Emirates Airbus A380-300 Dubai International Airport
Eva Air Boeing 777-300 Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport
Flair Airlines Boeing 737-800/MAX 8 Vancouver International Airport
French Bee Airbus A350-900 Fa'a'ā International Airport, Paris Orly Airport
Frontier Airlines Airbus A320/A320neo, Airbus A321/A321neo Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Hollywood Burbank Airport, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Denver International Airport, Eagle County Regional Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, Harry Reid International Airport, Ontario International Airport, John Wayne Airport, Palm Springs International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Portland International Airport, Salt Lake City International Airport, San Diego International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Orlando International Airport
Hawaiian Airlines Airbus A330-200, Airbus A321neo Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Kahului Airport
Iberia Airbus A330-200/300, Airbus A350-900 Madrid–Barajas Airport
ITA Airways Airbus A330-900neo, Airbus A350-900 Rome Fiumicino Airport
Japan Airlines Boeing 777-300, Boeing 787-9 Tokyo Haneda Airport, Tokyo Narita Airport
KLM Boeing 777-200/300, Boeing 787-9/10 Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Korean Air Boeing 777-300 Incheon International Airport
LEVEL Airbus A330-200 Barcelona International Airport
Philippine Airlines Boeing 777-300 Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Porter Airlines Embraer E195-E2 Toronto Pearson International Airport, Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport
Qantas Boeing 787-9 Sydney Airport
Qatar Airways Airbus A350-1000 Hamad International Airport
Starlux Airbus A350-900 Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport
Sun Country Airlines Boeing 737-800 Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport
TAP Air Portugal Airbus A330-900neo Lisbon Airport
Turkish Airlines Airbus A350-900, Boeing 777-300, Boeing 787-9 Istanbul Airport
Vietnam Airlines Airbus A350-900 Tan Son Nhat International Airport
Virgin Atlantic Boeing 787-9 London Heathrow Airport
WestJet Boeing 737-800/MAX 8 Calgary International Airport, Edmonton International Airport, Vancouver International Airport
ZIPAIR Boeing 787-8 Tokyo Narita Airport

International Terminal G

Airline Aircraft Destinations
Air China Boeing 777-300 Beijing Capital International Airport
Air New Zealand Boeing 787-9 Auckland Airport
All Nippon Airways (ANA) Boeing 777-300 Tokyo Haneda Airport, Tokyo Narita Airport
Asiana Airlines Airbus A350-900 Incheon International Airport
Fiji Airways Airbus A350-900 Nadi International Airport
Lufthansa Airbus A350-900, Boeing 747-8 Frankfurt Main Airport, Munich Airport
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) Airbus A330-300 Copenhagen Kastrup Airport
Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Singapore Changi Airport
Swiss International Airlines Boeing 777-300 Zurich Airport
United Airlines Airbus A319-100, Airbus A320-200, Airbus A321neo, Boeing 737-700/800/900/MAX 8/MAX 9, Boeing 767-300, Boeing 777-200/300, Boeing 787-8/9/10, Bombardier CRJ-200/700/900, Embraer E175 Los Angeles International Airport, San Diego International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Harry Reid International Airport, Denver International Airport, John Wayne Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Chicago O'hare International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, Portland International Airport, Dallas Fort-Worth International Airport, Salt Lake City International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Hollywood Burbank Airport, George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County International Airport, Vancouver International Airport, Palm Springs International Airport, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Ontario International Airport, Boise International Airport, London Heathrow Airport, Miami International Airport, Reno–Tahoe International Airport, Incheon International Airport, Philadelphia International Airport, Kahului Airport, California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport, Mexico City International Airport, Tokyo Narita International Airport, San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, Singapore Changi Airport, Sacramento International Airport, Redmond Municipal Airport, Santa Barbara Municipal Airport, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Orlando International Airport, Hong Kong Airport, Los Cabos International Airport, Eugene Airport, Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Tokyo Haneda International Airport, Redding Regional Airport, Tucson International Airport, Spokane International Airport, Rogue Valley International Airport, Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Frankfurt Main Airport, St. Louis Lambert International Airport, Cancun International Airport, Meadows Field Airport, Paris Charles De Gaulle International Airport, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Monterey Regional Airport, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Monterey Regional Airport, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, Munich Airport, Omaha Airport, Tri-Cities Airport, Albuquerque International Airport, San Antonio International Airport, Albuquerque International Airport, Auckland Airport, Monterrey International Airport, Tampa International Airport, Nashville International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Airport, Cleveland International Airport, Indianapolis International Airport, Pittsburgh International Airport, Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Indira Gandhi International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Sydney Airport, Calgary International Airport, Beijing Capital International Airport, Lihue Airport, Albuquerque International Airport, Aspen Pitkin County Airport, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, Glacier Park International Airport, Kansai International Airport, Kona International Airport, Fa'a'ā International Airport, Melbourne International Airport, John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, Zurich Airport, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Southwest Oregon Regional Airport, Southwest Florida International Airport, Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, Christchurch International Airport, Jackson Hole Airport, Montrose Regional Airport, Friedman Memorial Airport, Bishop International Airport, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Barcelona International Airport, Eagle County Regional Airport, Yampa Valley Regional Airport, Rome Fiumicino Airport, Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport, Juan Santamaría International Airport
    • As of November 2024

Facilities and Transportation

Public Transportation

The BART rapid transit rail system maintains a station at the terminals, and provides service to San Francisco and cities in the East Bay. It also provides connections to Caltrain commuter rail service to San Jose and Gilroy via the Millbrae Station.

Three samTrans bus routes serve the airport terminals. Route 292 serves a route from San Mateo to downtown San Francisco. Route 397 and Express Route KX serve a route from Palo Alto to downtown San Francisco.

The Airport Express provides transportation to Sonoma County, including Petaluma, Rohnert Park, and Santa Rosa.

The Marin Airporter provides transportation to multiple locations in Marin County including San Rafael, Mill Valley, and Sausalito.

External Links

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