While takeoff favors the right for Spokane Valley views, the landing into Portland strongly favors the left for Cascade Range visibility and the dramatic descent into the Willamette Valley. The landing experience is more visually rewarding on the left side.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Blue Mountains (southeastern Washington), then transitions into the rolling terrain of north-central Oregon. The John Day River basin and the Wallowa Valley lie to the south of the typical cruise track. As the aircraft approaches the Cascades, the terrain rises noticeably; the Deschutes River canyon may be visible to the south. The final approach descends through the Cascade passes, with Mount Hood and the High Cascades visible to the east on clear days before the aircraft enters the Willamette Valley basin for landing.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Spokane International (GEG) to Portland International (PDX)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Spokane to Portland. While takeoff favors the right for Spokane Valley views, the landing into Portland strongly favors the left for Cascade Range visibility and the dramatic descent into the Willamette Valley. The landing experience is more visually rewarding on the left side.
What can I see during takeoff from Spokane International in Spokane?
During takeoff from Spokane International (GEG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Spokane Valley floor and the Blue Mountains to the south and southeast. Spokane International typically departs to the west or northwest, so right-side passengers get the best view of the terrain immediately surrounding the airport during climb-out. Notable sights include: Spokane city grid, Spokane River valley floor, Blue Mountains (southeastern horizon), Rathdrum Prairie to the north.
What can I see when landing at Portland International in Portland?
When landing at Portland International (PDX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the Cascade Range and the Willamette Valley approach into Portland. Most arrivals use runways 28L/28R or 10L/10R; either way, left-side passengers see the Cascades and the valley geography that defines the Portland basin during descent. Notable sights include: Cascade Range (Mount Hood visible on clear days), Willamette Valley floor, Columbia River, Portland urban area.
How long is the flight from Spokane to Portland?
The flight from Spokane International (GEG) to Portland International (PDX) takes Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
What does the Spokane to Portland flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Blue Mountains (southeastern Washington), then transitions into the rolling terrain of north-central Oregon. The John Day River basin and the Wallowa Valley lie to the south of the typical cruise track. As the aircraft approaches the Cascades, the terrain rises noticeably; the Deschutes River canyon may be visible to the south. The final approach descends through the Cascade passes, with Mount Hood and the High Cascades visible to the east on clear days before the aircraft enters the Willamette Valley basin for landing.