About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Honolulu International (HNL) to Boeing Fld King Co International (BFI)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Honolulu to Seattle. While takeoff favors the right for Oahu's volcanic scenery, the landing approach into Seattle is superior on the left with Puget Sound, Lake Washington, and the Cascade Range providing more dramatic and sustained views during descent. The approach phase typically offers longer viewing time than departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Honolulu International in Honolulu?
During takeoff from Honolulu International (HNL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the West Loch and Waianae Range as you climb out. HNL typically departs runways 08L/08R heading east-northeast, so right windows get the dramatic volcanic ridgeline and Pearl Harbor approaches during initial climb. Notable sights include: West Loch (Pearl Harbor), Waianae Range, Kaena Point, Oahu's leeward coast.
What can I see when landing at Boeing Fld King Co International in Seattle?
When landing at Boeing Fld King Co International (BFI), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left seats offer the best approach views into BFI. Aircraft typically descend on a westerly heading into Seattle, giving left-window passengers clear views of Puget Sound, the Cascade Range, and Lake Washington as you descend toward the runway. Notable sights include: Lake Washington, Cascade Range, Puget Sound, Mount Rainier (weather permitting).
How long is the flight from Honolulu to Seattle?
The flight from Honolulu International (HNL) to Boeing Fld King Co International (BFI) takes Approximately 5 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Honolulu to Seattle flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Pacific with no significant landmarks visible mid-route. Expect open ocean for roughly 4 hours. As you approach the Pacific Northwest coast, the Olympic Peninsula becomes visible, followed by the Cascade Range and Puget Sound basin. Weather systems are common on this route—clear days are ideal for mountain viewing.