7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024

7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - United Airlines Red-Eye Flight UA2104 Departs EWR at 10 -15 PM for $169

United Airlines' flight UA2104 from Newark (EWR) at 10:15 PM for $169 is a red-eye option worth considering if you're prioritizing a low fare for your trip from the New York City area to San Francisco. This flight is part of a larger routing that seemingly involves stops in Chicago and Salt Lake City, though specific details of its NYC-SF segment are limited. It's not an unusual flight path for a red-eye, and while a quick search on United's app or website might provide more clarity, it's wise to factor in the possibility of changes to the route. While the ticket price is enticing, it's important to remember that flying overnight will mean potentially disrupted sleep schedules and extended travel time if layovers are involved. Always consider if the convenience of the time and possible connections are a fit for your specific needs, not just the immediate price tag.

United Airlines' flight UA2104, departing from Newark at 10:15 PM, is a prime example of a red-eye flight, a common strategy to offer cheaper fares. This particular flight, priced at $169, is part of a broader analysis of November 2024 routes between New York City and San Francisco. While I couldn't find the exact routing for this specific flight in my searches, it likely includes common stops for cross-country flights, perhaps involving hubs like Chicago or Salt Lake City.

Red-eye flights, in general, can be subject to less air traffic congestion, potentially contributing to smoother departures and landings. This is, of course, contingent on overall air traffic conditions at those particular times. The specific type of aircraft hasn't been confirmed for this route yet, but some United Airlines flights use the Boeing 737 MAX, known for its fuel efficiency. The fuel efficiency is something worth considering, as airlines face increasing pressure to improve their carbon footprint.

The lower fares for this red-eye flight are typical as airlines capitalize on the fact that many people don't prefer to fly late at night. While attractive for the budget-conscious, it's important to remember that overnight flights can impact sleep quality. This needs to be accounted for when planning activities after landing in San Francisco.


Airlines maintain cabin pressure around 6,000-8,000 feet, an altitude that mimics being high in the mountains. This can affect comfort, and can even play a small part in how well you feel on a red-eye flight. While this flight is a good option for many, for some, it may be worth considering taking an earlier, possibly more expensive flight if they're not comfortable flying at night or having to deal with sleep deprivation. This UA2104 flight operates at around 35,000 feet, which, in theory, should allow it to bypass the bulk of typical weather disturbances, possibly leading to a smoother experience.

Finally, it's important to assess the specific class of service for this fare, which may involve constraints like baggage allowances and seat choices. It's worth examining the full details to avoid any unexpected charges.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - United Airlines Red-Eye Flight UA2104 Departs EWR at 10 -15 PM for $169
2. 7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - JetBlue Mint Experience Flight B61424 from JFK at 8 AM for $198
3. 7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - Alaska Airlines Direct Flight AS1532 Departs JFK at 7 AM for $145
4. 7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - Delta Premium Select Flight DL449 from JFK at 4 PM for $179
5. 7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - American Airlines Main Cabin Flight AA178 from JFK at Noon for $156
6. 7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - Southwest Airlines One-Stop via Chicago Flight WN815 for $128
7. 7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - Frontier Airlines Budget Option Flight F91234 with Las Vegas Stop for $68

7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - JetBlue Mint Experience Flight B61424 from JFK at 8 AM for $198

JetBlue's flight B61424, departing from JFK at 8 AM for a mere $198, offers a unique opportunity to experience their Mint service. It's not every day you find a Mint fare this low, especially given that Mint typically commands significantly higher prices, often around $1,500 or more for a one-way ticket on transcontinental routes. The fact that this route is available at a fraction of that cost is noteworthy. Mint, JetBlue's premium cabin, is often touted for its service levels that rival some international business class offerings. This specific flight also includes the full Mint experience, meaning you'll get the improved amenities and service JetBlue is known for, as well as a dining experience that is not just limited to snacks or a standard meal. The flight's timing – departing at 8 AM – might also appeal to some travelers who prefer to arrive in San Francisco in the early afternoon, allowing them a full day of activities.

While transcontinental routes like this one are the foundation of JetBlue's Mint service, JetBlue has recently expanded Mint to include some international destinations as well. Whether you're bound for the West Coast or further afield, finding a Mint fare that breaks the mold of their typically premium prices is something worth examining. It's not a certainty that this route will always be available at this price point, so if you're looking to experience the premium Mint experience while keeping costs manageable, this flight might be worth exploring further. Just be sure to review all the fine print and potential travel restrictions for this particular fare and route.

JetBlue's flight B61424, departing JFK at 8 AM, offers its Mint experience for a surprisingly low $198. This is noteworthy because Mint usually commands prices closer to $600 or more, especially on popular transcontinental routes. It's fascinating how JetBlue, a carrier known for its budget-friendly approach, has carved out a space in the premium travel segment with its Mint product. They were early adopters of a business-class style experience specifically for routes like NYC to the West Coast.

The Mint experience isn't just about lie-flat seats; it includes a thoughtfully curated dining experience with menus created by recognized chefs, a feature that's often associated with international first or business class offerings. The fact that this is included in the ticket price without surcharges or add-ons is quite interesting. They've even partnered with a notable designer for the amenity kits provided in Mint, adding a touch of luxury that's uncommon in budget-focused airline experiences.

JetBlue's choice of the Airbus A321neo for Mint service is intriguing. This aircraft type emphasizes quieter engines and fuel efficiency. It seems they're trying to address passenger comfort and potentially reduce environmental impact as well. The fact that this flight leaves JFK during typical business travel hours raises questions about how JetBlue manages to offer a fare this low at a time when you'd expect higher demand.

Additionally, each Mint seat comes with its own entertainment system and high-speed internet, which isn't always the standard in premium classes on other airlines. It seems JetBlue is going above and beyond in some areas compared to even other established business or first-class experiences. The Mint experience also provides perks like priority boarding and dedicated check-in, which can lead to smoother airport experiences for time-conscious travelers.

JetBlue's TrueBlue rewards program, like many other airline loyalty programs, can benefit those who fly frequently. Using it for this route could accumulate points for future flights, upgrades, and other travel perks. The Mint flight attendants also appear to be specifically trained for a higher service level, which might contribute to better passenger experiences and reduce complaints compared to other flights. It will be interesting to see if this fares or strategy can be a sustainable for JetBlue, but for now, it certainly is a point of differentiation.

7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - Alaska Airlines Direct Flight AS1532 Departs JFK at 7 AM for $145

Alaska Airlines flight AS1532 is a direct option from JFK to San Francisco, leaving at 7 AM for a relatively low $145. This flight takes around six and a half hours, which is a reasonable travel time for a transcontinental trip. It's part of a wider review of various airlines for the NYC to SF route in November 2024, and if you prioritize a quick, direct flight at a reasonable price, Alaska is worth considering. The Boeing 737 is a commonly used aircraft on this route, so those familiar with it can expect a familiar in-flight experience. Keep in mind, however, that the advertised price might not include baggage fees or other optional charges that can add to the cost of the ticket. Additionally, flight times, while scheduled to arrive in the afternoon, can occasionally be affected by air traffic or weather-related delays, so you might want to allow some flexibility in your plans if you book this flight. While it seems to be a good price for this route, this specific Alaska flight is just one option among many, with several other carriers vying for customers on this popular route.


Alaska Airlines' flight AS1532, leaving JFK at 7 AM for a mere $145, is a noteworthy option for travelers aiming for San Francisco. This direct flight, taking roughly 6 hours and 28 minutes, is part of a broader analysis of November 2024 routes from New York City to San Francisco. It's fascinating that Alaska Airlines can offer this route for such a low price, especially given that it's one of the highest-traffic domestic routes in the country, with demand frequently leaning towards direct flights, particularly for business travelers.

The aircraft used for this route is commonly a Boeing 737, a relatively fuel-efficient plane. The decision to use the Boeing 737 here is worth noting, given the industry's focus on improved fuel efficiency and sustainability. Airlines are under pressure to minimize their carbon footprint, and using more efficient planes helps in that direction. This particular variant, the 737-900ER, even has a higher passenger capacity than some of its competitors, possibly playing a role in why Alaska Airlines can offer the flight at such an attractive price.

Alaska Airlines operates a number of direct routes from JFK to various destinations, indicating a focus on providing efficient connections for their passengers. It's worth comparing the different aspects of Alaska Airlines' service for this route to those offered by other carriers in the same competitive environment. Alaska Airlines has also recently focused on improving their in-flight service with offerings such as complimentary meals and snacks on select routes. It remains to be seen if this trend can be maintained, but it's an intriguing approach.

While I don't have insights into their current capacity or load factors, I would hypothesize that the $145 price point may be promotional. It's a strategy often seen during periods when airlines try to boost demand on specific routes. It remains to be seen if this pricing approach will remain consistent over time. The airline's online check-in, available between 24 and 1 hour before departure, is in line with industry norms. You can check in via their website or app for this flight from Terminal 7 at JFK.

There's some uncertainty about whether these departure and arrival times will remain consistent as we get closer to November 2024. Travelers should be mindful of possible schedule changes and plan accordingly. You also should examine baggage allowances, as airlines sometimes charge for checked bags. If you fly Alaska Airlines frequently, you might consider signing up for their frequent flyer program. They offer award flights for a relatively low number of miles, making it a relatively easy program to earn and utilize.

This flight, with its relatively low price and direct route, presents a viable alternative to those evaluating flight options from New York City to San Francisco. However, as always, it's best to consider various factors – including potential changes to the route, timing constraints, personal comfort levels, and baggage requirements – when choosing a flight.

7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - Delta Premium Select Flight DL449 from JFK at 4 PM for $179

Delta's Premium Select flight DL449 departing from JFK at 4 PM for $179 offers an interesting choice for those seeking a comfortable transcontinental experience to San Francisco. The Premium Select cabin boasts a wider seat with more recline and features like an adjustable footrest and leg rest. You also get Delta's entertainment system, Delta Studio, without extra charges. Add in elevated meal service, which includes complimentary alcoholic beverages, and you have a flight that seeks to elevate the typical economy experience. While the $179 price is appealing, it's crucial to remember that Premium Select often comes with a premium. Standard economy flights for this route might be considerably less expensive, depending on demand and booking windows. As you continue to plan your November 2024 trip, factors like flight availability and your preferences regarding flight times will weigh in when choosing the best way to get from NYC to San Francisco.

Delta's flight DL449, departing from JFK at 4 PM for $179, offers their Premium Select cabin, presenting an intriguing option for the NYC to San Francisco route in November. This cabin class falls somewhere between standard economy and business class, aiming to provide enhanced comfort at a price point potentially appealing to a wider range of travelers.

Delta Premium Select boasts 38 inches of pitch, which translates to a significant amount of extra legroom compared to the standard economy seats. This added space might be a strong selling point for passengers seeking greater comfort on a 6-hour flight, particularly for those sensitive to cramped conditions. While a wider seat is often desirable, it's worth comparing its overall comfort to other cabins, and it's not surprising that some airlines are beginning to offer variations within the economy class to capture a larger share of passengers.

The inclusion of a dedicated footrest and adjustable leg rest further contributes to passenger comfort, making it easier to stretch out and rest during the flight. On a longer journey, such amenities can make a considerable difference in arriving at the destination feeling relatively refreshed. It's important to verify the configuration and exact specifications of the specific aircraft scheduled for DL449 to fully evaluate the seat's features. Some Delta flights with Premium Select may have different configurations. Delta touts its Premium Select seats as 18.5 inches wide, which provides a slightly wider space compared to many standard economy seats.

Passengers on DL449 have access to Delta Studio, Delta's in-flight entertainment system, which is usually quite extensive. This entertainment system can help pass the time during a 6-hour journey. The cabin class is also said to come with complimentary alcoholic beverages like wine, beer, and spirits, though it's wise to always confirm the available options closer to the date of the flight to see if they've updated the selection. It's worth noting that Premium Select's pricing strategy tends to be around double the price of regular economy tickets for the same route. In this case, a careful comparison with the overall value of the increased comfort and services against a potential standard economy ticket needs to be done.

Flight DL449 itself is part of Delta's network for major routes, allowing for a comparison with similar offerings from other airlines. Since a lot of airlines offer transcontinental flights between NYC and SF, this makes for a competitive space. The actual route or stops don't appear to be explicitly mentioned in this segment, though this is a direct flight, which is useful for passengers who prefer shorter travel times.

The flight's status can be monitored in real-time through Delta's website or through third-party flight tracking services. This can be beneficial for passengers seeking real-time updates on their flight's progress or to anticipate potential delays or schedule adjustments. The convenience of real-time tracking can add to a sense of control and confidence during the travel process.

7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - American Airlines Main Cabin Flight AA178 from JFK at Noon for $156

American Airlines flight AA178, departing from JFK at noon for just $156, presents a budget-friendly option for travelers aiming to reach San Francisco in November 2024. The Main Cabin, while not extravagant, allows passengers to choose seats without incurring additional costs within the same cabin class, giving a degree of flexibility. You get the basic amenities one expects in economy class, which includes the standard seat configuration. If you're looking for more legroom and a slightly more comfortable experience, the Main Cabin Extra option, starting at around $20, offers perks like early boarding and priority access to overhead bin space. It's a tradeoff, more space for more money. One thing American Airlines has going for it is its fairly flexible cancellation policy: Within 24 hours of booking, if your ticket was purchased at least two days prior to departure, you're allowed to cancel. This adds to the overall picture of flight choices between NYC and San Francisco, making the decision-making process all the more complex as you consider price alongside what you consider important when you fly. It is something worth considering when evaluating your options for a trip west in November.

American Airlines' flight AA178, departing from JFK at noon for $156 in the Main Cabin, presents an intriguing option for travel to San Francisco in November 2024. It's part of a broader look at various airlines serving the NYC-SF route and is noteworthy for its price, which seems relatively low compared to other airlines for this popular route. American Airlines tends to use the Boeing 737-800 on domestic flights like this one. The 737-800 is an established aircraft that has a good track record in terms of reliability and features standard economy seating. It's also known for its fuel efficiency, which could be relevant, given that airline fuel costs have been climbing in recent years. The average flight duration for this route is around 6.5 hours, which is a typical timeframe for cross-country flights, offering a reasonable balance between travel time and the passenger experience.

The Main Cabin doesn't have any fancy perks like extra legroom or free seat selection, but it's part of the standard economy experience on American Airlines. However, this cabin class, despite its modest features, offers passengers the flexibility to potentially move to a lower-priced or even free seat if available. At this price, though, there's a high chance you're limited to carry-on luggage, as the base fare for the Main Cabin might not include baggage fees. American Airlines offers Wi-Fi onboard and typical streaming in-flight entertainment options, which are fairly standard in this cabin class for this type of route. You can earn AAdvantage miles with this flight, which may be a plus for frequent travelers. American Airlines allows cancellation within 24 hours if you book at least two days prior to departure, which offers a certain level of flexibility if you're not entirely certain about your plans.

This flight's departure time, at noon, is typical for flights catering to leisure and business travelers who don't want to arrive too late at night in San Francisco. It's interesting to consider if this strategy, departing around noon, is a way to improve flight load factors. In general, those flights, serving a transcontinental route with high demand, tend to have a high fill rate, though, so this doesn't necessarily explain the $156 price tag. The flight's status can be tracked through online services like FlightAware, offering real-time updates on the flight's progress, which is often a good way to avoid getting caught out by delays. While it appears to be a competitive price for the time of year, it's crucial to investigate any extra fees that may come with this fare. There is a higher tier called Main Cabin Extra that is offered by American Airlines for a slightly higher price, offering more legroom, early boarding, and priority access to overhead bin space, which may be more desirable if you're particular about comfort or efficiency. All in all, AA178 is just one piece of the overall picture when evaluating flight options between NYC and SF in November 2024. It's important to keep in mind your individual travel preferences and prioritize your needs when making the final decision.

7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - Southwest Airlines One-Stop via Chicago Flight WN815 for $128

Southwest Airlines offers a one-stop flight, WN815, for a remarkably low price of $128, potentially making it a compelling option for travelers looking to reach San Francisco from the New York City area in November. The flight itself is a multi-leg journey that connects through Chicago Midway, which, depending on your personal travel preferences, may or may not be ideal for you. The flight time from Phoenix to Chicago on this route is approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes. For budget-conscious travelers, this option is certainly interesting to consider in the competitive landscape of NYC to SF flights.

Southwest is recognized for its no-change-fee policy, which can be a plus for travelers who find that their plans might need adjustments. While this is a compelling aspect to the overall offering, it's important to look beyond the initial ticket price. It's not clear, without investigating more details, how long you will be in Chicago or if the plane change is seamless and straightforward. Layovers always involve some uncertainty, particularly the potential for flight delays. There might be additional costs associated with baggage or other services, so it's crucial to review the full details of this offer before committing. In November, the NYC to SF route is a highly competitive one with many options, and this Southwest offering is simply another piece of the puzzle.

Southwest Airlines' flight WN815, a one-stop option through Chicago for $128, presents an intriguing case study in airline pricing and route strategies, particularly for the busy NYC to San Francisco market.

It's notable that Southwest offers a surprisingly low fare on a heavily traveled route, defying the typical trend of higher prices during peak travel periods. They seem to be actively pursuing market share with a strategy of aggressively low fares. This approach is worth considering alongside other strategies pursued by competitors.

Another aspect worth considering is the flexibility Southwest offers within their Rapid Rewards program. This route allows for free changes, unlike most airlines which impose penalties. This added flexibility, coupled with earning points that are redeemable for future flights or services with minimal restrictions, makes it attractive for travelers who appreciate optionality in their travel planning.

This fare also comes with the added perk of free checked bags. Many airlines charge extra for this service. Southwest's allowance of two free checked bags can substantially lower travel costs, especially for people traveling with a significant amount of luggage.

The Chicago Midway connection on WN815 allows for potentially swift turnaround times. Midway's smaller size, compared to other larger Chicago airports, potentially decreases the odds of experiencing delays and missed connections.

Southwest also operates other routes featuring one-stop flights to San Francisco from a variety of locations. It is interesting to see that, even with an added stop, Southwest often maintains shorter layover times than traditional direct flights from some origins, which might impact the choice for those sensitive to total travel times.

Southwest's aircraft, primarily Boeing 737s, possess a solid safety record. These planes have undergone rigorous testing and are widely considered to be among the most reliable in the aviation industry. This aspect of Southwest’s fleet provides assurance to passengers and it is worth noting that Southwest has consistently maintained a strong safety profile.

For frequent fliers, accumulating Rapid Rewards miles on this route can be a significant perk. The airline's points redemption structure is designed to benefit travelers who fly frequently, particularly those on business or leisure trips.

Southwest still provides complimentary snacks and beverages on this route, which is worth highlighting. Many low-cost airlines omit these amenities. This subtle feature elevates the onboard experience compared to some other low-cost competitors.


Southwest doesn’t charge for its in-flight entertainment options. In-flight entertainment access, whether it be to live TV or to the internet (which has a separate cost), can play a major role in the passenger experience.


Beyond just the flight itself, Southwest's Rapid Rewards program has a network of partnerships, allowing passengers to accumulate points via everyday transactions. So the flight itself can potentially lead to even more opportunities in terms of redeemable miles or other benefits, potentially giving travelers the opportunity to fly for free or to enhance the overall travel experience.

These aspects provide a nuanced perspective on choosing Southwest for flights between NYC and San Francisco. Travelers can utilize this insight to evaluate cost versus benefits in their choice of flights.

7 Best Flight Routes from NYC to SF A Price Comparison Across Major Airlines for November 2024 - Frontier Airlines Budget Option Flight F91234 with Las Vegas Stop for $68

Frontier Airlines has introduced a very low-priced flight option, F91234, with a stop in Las Vegas for a mere $68. This fare is part of a promotional campaign that slashes base fares, making it a tempting choice for travelers seeking a cheap flight from New York City to San Francisco in November 2024. Frontier has implemented a 14-day advanced booking requirement to qualify for the deal, and travelers should be prepared to face potential restrictions and added fees. The flight through Las Vegas highlights Frontier's focus on Harry Reid International Airport as a major hub and illustrates a broader trend among airlines of using connecting flights to offer very low fares on high-demand routes. While the ticket price appears exceptionally low, potential passengers should think about the overall travel time associated with the stop in Las Vegas and the possible impact it might have on the rest of their travel plan, as it's common for very budget-focused flights to be less convenient.

Frontier Airlines' Flight F91234, a potential option for your NYC to San Francisco journey in November 2024, offers a surprisingly low fare of $68 with a stop in Las Vegas. This route, part of a larger review of flight options between these two cities, highlights some interesting aspects of Frontier's approach to air travel.

Frontier is a prominent example of the ultra-low-cost carrier model, often offering significantly lower ticket prices than traditional airlines. This $68 fare may be a promotional price designed to attract budget-conscious travelers, a common tactic for airlines in this competitive space. While it sounds like an unbeatable price, this tactic is also often seen in conjunction with various add-on fees.

Interestingly, Frontier has introduced "Stretch" seating on some flights, offering more legroom and recline, similar to features typically found in first class. This raises questions about how airlines are rethinking what premium features are for a budget-minded traveler. Are there specific kinds of passengers they're trying to attract?

The Las Vegas stopover might be attractive to travelers who are willing to extend their travel time for a chance to explore the city. Las Vegas frequently serves as a connecting hub for travelers heading to various West Coast destinations. This pattern of flight paths likely reflects Frontier's network and strategies to increase their market reach across several destinations.


Although the base fare is exceptionally low, travelers should be aware of the potential for extra fees that can quickly add up. Fees for things like carry-on baggage, seat selection, and even in-flight refreshments are frequent occurrences. These extra costs may result in significant increases to the total travel expense, which negates the initial advantage. There’s a clear division here between what’s promoted and the true cost for many passengers.

Frontier frequently offers promotional fares, sometimes as low as $20, for specific routes under certain conditions and when booked in advance. These “super deals” generate a sense of urgency among consumers to book quickly, a tactic commonly used in online retail as well.

This route, the New York City to San Francisco flight path, has been a major air travel corridor for decades. The fact that Frontier is trying to enter into this space implies that they are increasingly willing to compete aggressively against well-established carriers on highly competitive routes.

Frontier Airlines’ loyalty program, Frontier Miles, allows travelers to earn points for their flights and through partnered businesses, providing incentives for repeat customers and offering certain benefits for frequent fliers. This is a common feature among airlines to retain customers, and Frontier's program is worth considering in this regard.


Frontier operates an all-Airbus fleet, predominantly with the A320 family of aircraft. This creates uniformity for the airline’s operations regarding pilot training, maintenance, and overall efficiency. This pattern can often be seen as a good tactic for streamlining their operations and potentially lowering costs for the airline.


The company’s business model revolves around an unbundled fare structure. The base price is designed to be very low to attract potential customers and those looking for the most affordable option. Meanwhile, customers who want a few extras can pay for those upgrades and amenities, essentially customizing their experience. This strategy requires a consumer who understands the tradeoffs involved.


While Frontier is a low-cost carrier, their on-time performance is sometimes seen as reasonably good relative to their fares. It is interesting to see that the tradeoffs in service levels are balanced with other benefits, possibly in terms of convenience. This highlights that airline travel is about striking a balance between cost and expectations.

These insights provide a useful understanding of Frontier Airlines' approach to air travel, highlighting the balance between budget and the overall customer experience. These points may be helpful for potential travelers deciding between different airlines for their travel needs between New York and San Francisco.