While takeoff offers excellent Southern Alps views from the right, the landing approach provides more dramatic scenery with Mount Rainier and Puget Sound from the left. The landing sequence is longer and more visually rewarding overall.
Flown CHC to SEA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Christchurch to Seattle is 7,428 miles (11,954 km), a flight of about 16 hours 30 minutes.
The flight crosses the South Pacific over open ocean for approximately 8-10 hours with no significant landmarks visible. The route typically passes south of Fiji and Samoa. As the aircraft approaches North America, the Hawaiian Islands may be visible to the south (depending on exact routing), followed by the Pacific coastline of California or Oregon. The final approach crosses the Cascade Range and Puget Sound basin before reaching Seattle.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from CHC
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains immediately after departure. Aircraft depart Christchurch heading northeast, giving right-side passengers a direct view of the mountain range that dominates the western horizon.
Landing at SEA
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during approach to Seattle. Aircraft descend from the northeast over Puget Sound, and left-side passengers see the Cascade Range, Mount Rainier, and the Seattle skyline as the aircraft banks westward for final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Christchurch International (CHC) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Christchurch to Seattle. While takeoff offers excellent Southern Alps views from the right, the landing approach provides more dramatic scenery with Mount Rainier and Puget Sound from the left. The landing sequence is longer and more visually rewarding overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Christchurch International in Christchurch?
During takeoff from Christchurch International (CHC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains immediately after departure. Aircraft depart Christchurch heading northeast, giving right-side passengers a direct view of the mountain range that dominates the western horizon. Notable sights include: Southern Alps (Mount Cook visible on clear days), Canterbury Plains, Banks Peninsula, Lyttelton Harbour.
What can I see when landing at Seattle Tacoma International in Seattle?
When landing at Seattle Tacoma International (SEA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during approach to Seattle. Aircraft descend from the northeast over Puget Sound, and left-side passengers see the Cascade Range, Mount Rainier, and the Seattle skyline as the aircraft banks westward for final approach. Notable sights include: Mount Rainier, Cascade Range, Puget Sound, Seattle downtown skyline.
How long is the flight from Christchurch to Seattle?
The flight from Christchurch International (CHC) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) takes about 16 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 7,428 miles (11,954 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Christchurch to Seattle flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the South Pacific over open ocean for approximately 8-10 hours with no significant landmarks visible. The route typically passes south of Fiji and Samoa. As the aircraft approaches North America, the Hawaiian Islands may be visible to the south (depending on exact routing), followed by the Pacific coastline of California or Oregon. The final approach crosses the Cascade Range and Puget Sound basin before reaching Seattle.