The landing descent provides superior scenic value with views of the Pacific coastline, Santa Monica Mountains, and Los Angeles Basin. Takeoff views are pleasant but more limited in scope and visual drama.
Flown GMP to LAX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Seoul to Los Angeles is 5,963 miles (9,596 km), a flight of about 11 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the North Pacific Ocean for approximately 5,000 nautical miles. Notable features include: the Aleutian Islands (visible if flying northern route near 50°N), the Bering Sea, and the Alaskan coastline. Mid-Pacific offers open ocean views with occasional weather systems. Approaching North America, the Rocky Mountains become visible—particularly the Cascade Range and Sierra Nevada as the aircraft descends toward California. The Great Basin desert appears as tan, arid terrain. Coastal approach reveals the California coastline, Channel Islands, and the transition from ocean to populated areas.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from GMP
LEFTLeft side offers views of Seoul's urban sprawl and the Han River valley during initial climb. Right side faces inland terrain with less distinctive features.
Landing at LAX
RIGHTRight side provides extended views of the Los Angeles Basin, Pacific coastline, and Santa Monica Mountains during descent. Left side faces inland desert and mountains with less visual interest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gimpo (GMP) to Los Angeles International (LAX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seoul to Los Angeles. The landing descent provides superior scenic value with views of the Pacific coastline, Santa Monica Mountains, and Los Angeles Basin. Takeoff views are pleasant but more limited in scope and visual drama.
What can I see during takeoff from Gimpo in Seoul?
During takeoff from Gimpo (GMP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of Seoul's urban sprawl and the Han River valley during initial climb. Right side faces inland terrain with less distinctive features. Notable sights include: Han River (Hangang) winding through Seoul, Seoul city grid and high-rises, Gimpo Airport runways and surrounding flatlands, distant Bukhan Mountains to the north.
What can I see when landing at Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
When landing at Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides extended views of the Los Angeles Basin, Pacific coastline, and Santa Monica Mountains during descent. Left side faces inland desert and mountains with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Pacific Ocean and Southern California coastline, Santa Monica Mountains, Los Angeles Basin urban sprawl, San Pedro Bay and Long Beach harbor.
How long is the flight from Seoul to Los Angeles?
The flight from Gimpo (GMP) to Los Angeles International (LAX) takes about 11 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,963 miles (9,596 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Seoul to Los Angeles flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Pacific Ocean for approximately 5,000 nautical miles. Notable features include: the Aleutian Islands (visible if flying northern route near 50°N), the Bering Sea, and the Alaskan coastline. Mid-Pacific offers open ocean views with occasional weather systems. Approaching North America, the Rocky Mountains become visible—particularly the Cascade Range and Sierra Nevada as the aircraft descends toward California. The Great Basin desert appears as tan, arid terrain. Coastal approach reveals the California coastline, Channel Islands, and the transition from ocean to populated areas.