About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Incheon International (ICN) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seoul to Seattle. The Mount Rainier and Seattle approach on the left side at landing is one of the most dramatic arrival views in North American aviation. While the right side wins at takeoff for Seoul city views, the left side also captures the Aleutian Island chain and North Pacific coastline during the transoceanic cruise, making it the stronger choice across the full flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Incheon International in Seoul?
During takeoff from Incheon International (ICN), sit on the Right side for the best views. ICN departures on runway 15R/33L or 16/34 typically head southward or northward over the Yellow Sea. A right-side seat gives you views back over Seoul's Han River and the city grid as you climb out eastward, while the left side faces open water. Departing northbound, the right side catches Bukhansan and the dense urban sprawl of northern Seoul. Notable sights include: Han River and its bridges through central Seoul, Bukhansan granite peaks north of the city, Incheon's artificial island infrastructure below, Gyeonggi Bay coastline.
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. SeaTac arrivals from the west or northwest on runways 16L/16R put the left side facing east toward the Cascades. You get a clear view of Mount Rainier dominating the horizon, with the Seattle skyline and Elliott Bay visible as you descend over Puget Sound. The right side faces mostly open water and the Olympic Peninsula. Notable sights include: Mount Rainier (14,411 ft) to the southeast, Seattle skyline and Elliott Bay, Puget Sound waterways below, Lake Washington east of the city.
How long is the flight from Seoul to Seattle?
The flight from Incheon International (ICN) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) takes Approximately 9 to 10 hours.
What does the Seoul to Seattle flight path pass over?
The great circle route arcs northeast over the Sea of Japan, crosses the southern tip of the Kamchatka Peninsula and the Aleutian Island chain, then tracks across the Gulf of Alaska before descending toward the Pacific Northwest coast. Passengers may see sea ice and volcanic peaks of the Aleutians, the vast open North Pacific, and the rugged coastline of British Columbia and Washington State on descent.