JFK to SFO Route Guide
New York, United States → San Francisco, United States
Quick answer
KJFK (New York, United States) to KSFO (San Francisco, United States) is a 2,242 NM (4,152 km / 2,580 mi) great-circle route with an initial bearing of 282° (WNW). Typical cruise altitude FL380, expected flight time 5h 11m, common aircraft: Boeing 757-200, Boeing 737 MAX 8, Airbus A321XLR.
Distance
2,242 NM
4,152 km / 2,580 mi
Initial Bearing
282° (WNW)
True heading at departure
Typical Cruise
FL380
38,000 ft
Block Time
5h 11m
Typical jet, no wind correction
Fuel Estimate
8,226 kg
Single-aisle equivalent + reserve
Departure Elevation
13 ft
KJFK
Arrival Elevation
13 ft
KSFO
What aircraft fly this route?
For a 2,242 NM mission, operators typically deploy:
- Boeing 757-200
- Boeing 737 MAX 8
- Airbus A321XLR
- Airbus A330-300
Weather considerations
Pilots flying JFK-SFO should brief METARs and TAFs at both ends, plus any en-route SIGMETs. On this long-range mission, plan for an alternate within fuel reserves and review oceanic / NAT track procedures if applicable.
Frequently asked questions
What is the distance between JFK and SFO?
2,242 nautical miles (4,152 km / 2,580 statute miles) great-circle.
How long is the flight from New York to San Francisco?
Approximately 5h 11m block-to-block for a typical commercial jet, depending on aircraft type and winds.
What aircraft typically fly JFK-SFO?
Common types include Boeing 757-200, Boeing 737 MAX 8, Airbus A321XLR, Airbus A330-300 depending on operator and demand.
What altitude do flights cruise at?
Most flights at this distance cruise around FL380 (38,000 ft), though winds and traffic affect filed altitude.
What initial heading is the route?
282° true (WNW). Track varies along the route due to great-circle curvature.
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