The takeoff climb out of Seattle provides superior scenic value with immediate, dramatic views of the Cascade Range and Mount Rainier. While the landing approach offers valley scenery, the volcanic peaks and alpine terrain during departure are more visually distinctive and memorable.
Flown BFI to PWM? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Seattle to Portland is 2,481 miles (3,993 km), a flight of about 5 hours 15 minutes.
Columbia River (northern Washington), Cascade Range foothills, Mount Hood (distant southern view), transition from Pacific Northwest coniferous forest to Willamette Valley agricultural landscape
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpg?width=600)
.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from BFI
LEFTLeft seats offer immediate views of the Cascade Range as the aircraft climbs eastbound out of Seattle. The volcanic peaks and ridgelines dominate the eastern horizon during the initial climb phase.
Landing at PWM
RIGHTRight seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Portland. The aircraft descends from the west over the Willamette Valley, and right-side windows face the White Mountains and the Columbia River Gorge to the north.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Boeing Fld King Co International (BFI) to Portland International Jetport (PWM)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seattle to Portland. The takeoff climb out of Seattle provides superior scenic value with immediate, dramatic views of the Cascade Range and Mount Rainier. While the landing approach offers valley scenery, the volcanic peaks and alpine terrain during departure are more visually distinctive and memorable.
What can I see during takeoff from Boeing Fld King Co International in Seattle?
During takeoff from Boeing Fld King Co International (BFI), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left seats offer immediate views of the Cascade Range as the aircraft climbs eastbound out of Seattle. The volcanic peaks and ridgelines dominate the eastern horizon during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Cascade Range (Mount Rainier, Mount Baker), Puget Sound, Lake Washington, Seattle urban grid.
What can I see when landing at Portland International Jetport in Portland?
When landing at Portland International Jetport (PWM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Portland. The aircraft descends from the west over the Willamette Valley, and right-side windows face the White Mountains and the Columbia River Gorge to the north. Notable sights include: Willamette Valley farmland, Columbia River, Mount Hood (distant), White Mountains.
How long is the flight from Seattle to Portland?
The flight from Boeing Fld King Co International (BFI) to Portland International Jetport (PWM) takes about 5 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,481 miles (3,993 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Seattle to Portland flight path pass over?
Columbia River (northern Washington), Cascade Range foothills, Mount Hood (distant southern view), transition from Pacific Northwest coniferous forest to Willamette Valley agricultural landscape