FlyerTalk Forums - SFO Departures

FlyerTalk Forums (https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/index.php)

- KLM Flying Dutchman (https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/klm-flying-dutchman-493/)

- - SFO Departures (https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/klm-flying-dutchman/1979337-sfo-departures.html)

Hello all,

I’m an SFO based traveler so pretty familiar with typical departure runways.

I’ve noticed now, a handful of times...and it may be more, that the KLM SFO-AMS flight departing around 14.00 (747 or 787, depending on the day I have seen it) uses Runway 1 L/R instead of 28 L/R. In my experience, typically the domestic departures use 1 L/R and international using 28 L/R, departing over Daly City and Pacifica before turning right to go back over SF (on a European routing).

I haven’t noticed the 16.30 departure..but I’m not usually arriving/departing at that time.

Anyone know why the KLM flight goes out on 1 L/R?

many thanks in advance

Quote:

Originally Posted by coxm (Post 31324015)

[
Anyone know why the KLM flight goes out on 1 L/R?

I guess you mean why does ATC assign them this runway?

KL doesn't get to choose which runway it departs from.

Yes, I understand that, but it seems to be the only one I notice.

Just curious if if anyone knew.

SFO is an odd duck. Usually visibility dictates runway use at SFO. I'd love to get some background on it -- perhaps ask in the United forum as it's their hub.