Flight time & jet lag: Los Angeles to San Francisco

Los Angeles to San Francisco: Route overview

This short-haul route from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO) covers 544 km in approximately 1h 14m to 1h 40m. Since Los Angeles and San Francisco share effectively the same UTC offset, jet lag is not a factor, though the travel time itself can cause fatigue. The route transitions between subtropical and temperate climate zones, so expect a significant change in daylight duration and intensity that influences your circadian adjustment strategy.

What makes the Los Angeles–San Francisco route different

This route is unusual in that it covers a substantial distance (544 km) without crossing time zones. The main challenge is travel fatigue from the short-haul flight rather than circadian disruption, making recovery straightforward — usually within 24 hours.

Arrival strategy for San Francisco

Arriving in San Francisco without a time zone change means your body clock is aligned with the local schedule. Focus on staying hydrated during the flight, eating a meal on arrival at a local mealtime, and getting moderate physical activity to counter travel fatigue. Most people feel fully recovered after one good night's sleep.

Circadian rhythm analysis: Los Angeles → San Francisco

Your circadian rhythm remains synchronized with the local day-night cycle in San Francisco since there is no time zone difference. The primary challenge is travel fatigue from the 1h 14m to 1h 40m flight. Maintain your normal sleep schedule and prioritize hydration.

Pre-departure preparation

With minimal time zone change, no pre-departure sleep adjustment is necessary for this Los Angeles to San Francisco route. Focus instead on arriving well-rested: maintain your normal sleep schedule in the days before travel, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol on the flight.

Your first 72 hours in San Francisco

Day 1: Arrive in San Francisco and follow local time immediately. Eat meals at normal local hours and get outside in daylight. Day 2: You should feel fully adjusted. Resume normal activities. Day 3: No residual effects expected.

Recovery timeline

No jet lag recovery needed for this Los Angeles to San Francisco route as both cities share the same time zone offset. Any fatigue should resolve after one night of good sleep.

Route Planner

Adjust departure date for DST-accurate results.

Business hours: Los Angeles vs San Francisco

Seasonal and climate factors

Short-haul flight times on this short-haul route are less affected by seasonal wind patterns, though winter weather can cause delays at both Los Angeles and San Francisco airports. San Francisco at 38°N experiences moderate seasonal daylight variation. Summer offers longer evenings useful for westward adjustment, while winter's earlier sunsets support eastward adjustment schedules.

How the Los Angeles–San Francisco flight time is estimated

The 1h 14m to 1h 40m estimate for Los Angeles to San Francisco is derived from the 544-km great-circle distance. As a short-haul route, a larger proportion of flight time is spent climbing and descending rather than at optimal cruise altitude, resulting in a lower effective speed of 650–750 km/h. An additional 30–50 minutes accounts for taxi, takeoff, climb, descent, approach, and taxi at both LAX and SFO. Actual routing through controlled airspace may add 3–8% distance beyond the great-circle path due to air traffic corridors and restricted zones along the way.

Wind patterns and flight duration

On this short 544-km route, wind effects are relatively minor compared to the fixed overhead of taxi, takeoff, and landing. The main variable in flight time is airport congestion and weather at LAX and SFO.

Practical travel context

This short-haul route connects Los Angeles (United States) with San Francisco (United States).

Frequently asked questions: Los Angeles to San Francisco

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