Flights from Sydney (SYD) to San Francisco (SFO)

Looking to book the perfect flight from Sydney to San Francisco? Whether you're a tech professional heading to the Bay Area for work, a tourist exploring the Golden Gate City, or a frequent traveller hopping across the Pacific, this guide has you covered. Learn everything from flight durations to how to score the best deals—all through Traveloka, your trusted travel companion. 

Which airlines fly directly from Sydney to San Francisco? 

Several airlines offer direct flights from Sydney to San Francisco, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium experiences. Here are your choices: 

• United Airlines is Full-service, with complimentary meals and drinks—part of the MileagePlus frequent flyer program. 
• Qantas Airways is a leading Australian airline that offers extra comfort and amenities, such as baggage allowance and Qantas Frequent Flyer points. 

Click on the airline pages via Traveloka to easily compare options and book. 

How often are direct flights between Sydney and San Francisco? 

Several carriers, including United Airlines and Qantas, operate direct flights between Sydney and San Francisco daily. The frequency of these flights provides travellers with flexibility, making this route a popular choice for leisure and business trips.

Flight time from Sydney to San Francisco 

Flying directly, the total travel time from Sydney to San Francisco takes around 13 hours and 15 minutes. Get ready to enjoy a seamless, long-haul experience onboard your chosen airline. 

Average price of flights between Sydney and San Francisco 

Expect ticket prices to range widely, but you can find fares starting as low as AU$1,131. Booking during significant sales like Black Friday or Australia Day offers your best shot at lower fares. Visit Traveloka for real-time updates on pricing and travel deals. 

Cheapest time to fly to San Francisco 

The cheapest flights to San Francisco are usually available in February and March, the best months to travel on a budget. 

Peak travel periods like December (the holiday rush) and June (the American summer) are more expensive, so plan your trip during the off-season to save significantly. 

Where is the airport in San Francisco? 

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located roughly 21km south of downtown San Francisco, making it a convenient gateway to the city. 

Transport options include:

• BART Trains: A direct and cost-effective route to the city centre.
• Ride-shares or Taxis: Widely available and ideal for door-to-door service.
• Airport Shuttles: Shared rides offer a balance between cost and convenience. 

Visa requirements for Australians flying to San Francisco 

Before departure, Australians travelling to San Francisco under the US Visa Waiver Program must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). The process is simple and can be done online. Ensure validity for at least six months after your travel dates. 

Time difference between Sydney and San Francisco 

San Francisco operates in the Pacific Time Zone (PT), which is 19 hours behind Sydney during daylight savings time in Australia and 17 hours behind Sydney during standard time. Flight schedules already account for this difference, so you’ll arrive at your destination ready to adjust.

Do you lose a day flying when Sydney to San Francisco? 

Yes, due to the crossing of the International Date Line, passengers travelling from Sydney to San Francisco "gain a day" on the clock. For example, a morning departure from Sydney may result in an arrival in San Francisco the same morning despite the long flight.

Where else can you fly directly to Sydney from the USA? 

Direct flights to Sydney are available from several major cities in the United States, including Los Angeles (LAX), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), and Honolulu (HNL). Airlines such as Qantas and American Airlines operate these routes, providing convenient options for travellers. 

What type of aircraft is used for flights to Sydney from San Francisco? 

Flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Sydney (SYD) typically use long-haul aircraft such as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner or the Airbus A380. These planes have modern amenities to ensure passenger comfort during the approximately 15-hour flight.

Alternate airports to SFO 

If San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is not convenient, travellers might consider using Oakland International Airport (OAK) or San Jose International Airport (SJC). These airports are within the Bay Area and offer various domestic and international connections. While there won’t be any direct flights to Sydney from them, you may find significant savings by connecting and landing there instead.

Our tips for getting the best price on flights 

• Use Traveloka's Promotions Page to check out exclusive deals and discounts to save money on your next trip. Staying updated on promotions can help you snag incredible offers. 
• Book in Advance: The earlier you book, the better your chances of locking in the lowest rates. Planning saves money and ensures you have more options for seats and times. 
• Set Price Alerts on Traveloka: Let Traveloka do the work for you! Set up price alerts to track fare changes and get instant notifications when prices drop so you never miss out on the best deals.

Why trust Traveloka with your flight booking? 

Traveloka isn’t just another flight search tool. Here are reasons why thousands of travellers worldwide trust it. Now, it's bringing its expertise to Australians. 

• Easy-to-Use Platform 
• Compare flights, sort by price or duration, and book your trip in minutes. 
• Exclusive Deals 
• Access discounts and offers exclusive to Traveloka users. 
• Complete Travel Solutions 
• Add travel insurance, book hotels, and even purchase local SIM cards directly through the platform. 
• Transparent Pricing 
• There are no hidden fees; pay only what you see. 
• 24/7 Customer Support 
• I am always available to answer your travel questions or assist with changes. 

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