The flight distance from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) in Raleigh/Durham, United States to San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in San Francisco, United States is 3,853 kilometers (2,394 miles / 2,081 nautical miles). The estimated flight time for this route is approximately 6h, flying west northwest at a heading of 286°.

This is a medium-haul route that may be operated by either narrow-body or wide-body aircraft depending on demand. Passengers can expect a meal service on most carriers.

This is a domestic route within United States. Both airports operate in the same country, which may simplify travel requirements and documentation. Despite being a domestic route, there is a 3-hour time difference between the two cities.

Time zone information: When it's 05:12 in Raleigh/Durham, it's 02:12 in San Francisco. The 3-hour time difference may cause some jet lag. Most travelers adjust within a day or two.

The return flight from San Francisco (SFO) to Raleigh/Durham (RDU) follows a heading of 79° (east). Actual flight times may vary depending on wind conditions, air traffic, and the specific aircraft used.

For more information about these airports, visit the Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) detail pages, or use our flight duration calculator to compare other routes.