Right side wins at both ends of the flight. During the long overwater cruise across the North Pacific and along the Aleutian chain, neither side has a strong advantage, but the right side picks up better views of any Aleutian island passes and the Alaska Peninsula coastline. Combined with the superior takeoff and landing views, right is the clear choice.
Flown ADK to SEA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Adak Island to Seattle is 2,392 miles (3,849 km), a flight of about 5 hours.
The route tracks northeast across the central North Pacific, passing over or near the eastern Aleutian Islands including Unimak Island and the active Shishaldin Volcano, then across the Gulf of Alaska. The Alaska Peninsula and Kodiak Island may be visible to the right in the middle portion of the flight. The final descent crosses the Cascade foothills and the Seattle metro area.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ADK
RIGHTAdak's runway 23 departure heads southwest over the island, and the right side faces north toward the rugged volcanic interior of Adak Island including Mount Moffett. The left side looks out over open ocean with little geographic interest during climb-out.
Landing at SEA
RIGHTSeaTac's primary arrival on runway 16R brings aircraft in from the north on a southward heading. The right side faces west over Puget Sound, giving clear views of the Olympic Peninsula and the sound's open water. The left side looks inland toward suburban sprawl with less dramatic scenery.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Adak (ADK) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Adak Island to Seattle. Right side wins at both ends of the flight. During the long overwater cruise across the North Pacific and along the Aleutian chain, neither side has a strong advantage, but the right side picks up better views of any Aleutian island passes and the Alaska Peninsula coastline. Combined with the superior takeoff and landing views, right is the clear choice.
What can I see during takeoff from Adak in Adak Island?
During takeoff from Adak (ADK), sit on the Right side for the best views. Adak's runway 23 departure heads southwest over the island, and the right side faces north toward the rugged volcanic interior of Adak Island including Mount Moffett. The left side looks out over open ocean with little geographic interest during climb-out. Notable sights include: Mount Moffett (volcanic peak, 3,924 ft), Kuluk Bay, Andrew Lake, Adak's tundra-covered ridgelines.
What can I see when landing at Seattle Tacoma International in Seattle?
When landing at Seattle Tacoma International (SEA), sit on the Right side for the best views. SeaTac's primary arrival on runway 16R brings aircraft in from the north on a southward heading. The right side faces west over Puget Sound, giving clear views of the Olympic Peninsula and the sound's open water. The left side looks inland toward suburban sprawl with less dramatic scenery. Notable sights include: Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains (Olympic Peninsula), Vashon Island, Commencement Bay near Tacoma.
How long is the flight from Adak Island to Seattle?
The flight from Adak (ADK) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) takes about 5 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 2,392 miles (3,849 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Adak Island to Seattle flight path pass over?
The route tracks northeast across the central North Pacific, passing over or near the eastern Aleutian Islands including Unimak Island and the active Shishaldin Volcano, then across the Gulf of Alaska. The Alaska Peninsula and Kodiak Island may be visible to the right in the middle portion of the flight. The final descent crosses the Cascade foothills and the Seattle metro area.