About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Seattle. While the right side wins at takeoff, the left side delivers the better overall flight. Once northbound, the left side tracks the California and Oregon coastline, the Klamath Mountains, and the Cascades including Mount Shasta and Mount Jefferson visible in the distance. The Seattle approach on the left is also the clear winner. Right side sees more of the Central Valley and inland terrain, which is less visually compelling.
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 westbound over the ocean on runways 24L/24R, then turns north. Right side passengers get the sweep back over the LA basin, Santa Monica Bay, and the Santa Monica Mountains as the aircraft banks. Left side faces open Pacific with little to see. Notable sights include: Santa Monica Bay coastline, Santa Monica Mountains, downtown LA skyline to the northeast, Palos Verdes Peninsula.
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 typically lands on runways 16L/16R heading south, approaching from the north over Puget Sound. Left side passengers get a direct view of Puget Sound, the Seattle city skyline, and Elliott Bay on the approach. Right side faces inland toward the Cascade foothills. Notable sights include: Puget Sound, Elliott Bay and Seattle skyline, Vashon Island, the Olympic Peninsula across the water.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Seattle?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) takes Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.
What does the Los Angeles to Seattle flight path pass over?
The flight tracks up the California coast before cutting inland over Oregon. Key features include the rugged Klamath Mountains straddling the CA-OR border, Mount Shasta visible as an isolated snow-capped volcanic cone in northern California, Crater Lake occasionally visible in southern Oregon on clear days, the Willamette Valley and Portland metro area, and the Washington Cascades including Mount Rainier becoming prominent as you descend toward Seattle.