About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Incheon International (ICN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Seoul. The right side delivers the more dramatic and varied experience overall. The LA departure view of the basin, mountains, and coastline is genuinely spectacular. During the transpacific cruise, both sides see open ocean, but on descent into Incheon the left side edges ahead slightly. Given the far superior takeoff views on the right, it wins overall for the full journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
During takeoff from Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Right side for the best views. LAX typically departs westward over the Pacific on runways 24L/24R, then aircraft turn northward. A right-side seat captures the sweep back over the LA Basin, with the Santa Monica Mountains, downtown LA skyline, and the San Gabriel Mountains visible as the plane banks north. Left side faces open ocean during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Santa Monica Mountains, Downtown LA skyline, San Gabriel Mountains (including Mt. San Antonio at 10,064 ft), Catalina Island to the southwest.
What can I see when landing at Incheon International in Seoul?
When landing at Incheon International (ICN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Incheon typically lands from the west on runways oriented roughly east-west. On approach from the Yellow Sea, the left side faces south toward the Han River estuary, the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula coastline, and the sprawling Seoul metropolitan area visible inland. Right side looks north toward less populated areas and the Yellow Sea. Notable sights include: Han River estuary, Seoul metropolitan skyline (visible to the east), Yellow Sea island chains, Incheon city waterfront.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Seoul?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Incheon International (ICN) takes Approximately 12 to 13 hours.
What does the Los Angeles to Seoul flight path pass over?
The great circle route arcs northward over the North Pacific, passing south of the Aleutian Island chain (Alaska). Passengers may glimpse Aleutian islands on clear days from either side around the midpoint. The route then descends toward the Korean Peninsula over the Yellow Sea. The vast majority of the flight is over open ocean with no land visible.