Question 1

What is the flight distance between London (LHR) and San Francisco (SFO)?

Accepted Answer

The shortest Great Circle flight distance between London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 8,616 km (4,652 nautical miles / 5,354 statute miles).

Question 2

How long is the flight time from LHR to SFO?

Accepted Answer

The estimated commercial flight time from LHR to SFO is approximately 11h 31m at typical cruising speeds (900 km/h), factoring in prevailing winds and standard 30-minute runway buffers.

Question 3

What is the difference between the Great Circle and Rhumb line route from LHR to SFO?

Accepted Answer

The Great Circle geodesic path is the shortest spherical distance at 8,616 km. In contrast, the Rhumb line covers 9,715 km (+1,099 km (+12.8%) divergence).

Question 4

What is the initial flight heading from LHR to SFO?

Accepted Answer

The initial true forward bearing when departing from LHR toward SFO is 316° NW.