While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is significantly more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The approach to Seattle offers Lake Washington and the Cascade Range—two major geographic features that make the left side the better overall choice for this route.
Flown MCI to BFI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Kansas City to Seattle is 1,487 miles (2,393 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Great Plains heading northwest, passing over eastern Colorado and Wyoming. Notable features include the South Platte River valley near Denver (visible around 1.5 hours out), the Rocky Mountain Front near the Colorado-Wyoming border, and the Bighorn Mountains in north-central Wyoming. As you approach the Pacific Northwest around 3 hours into the flight, the Cascade Range becomes visible on the left side of the aircraft, with Mount Hood appearing near the Oregon-Washington border before final descent into Seattle.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MCI
RIGHTRight side captures the Missouri River's distinctive meanders as they curve through Kansas City during initial climb. You'll see the river's oxbow bends and the downtown skyline receding to the left, with suburban sprawl extending eastward on the right.
Landing at BFI
LEFTLeft side provides the best views during approach to BFI. You'll see Lake Washington and the Cascade Range as you descend, with the lake's distinctive shape and the snow-capped peaks providing dramatic context for Seattle's geography.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Kansas City International (MCI) to Boeing Fld King Co International (BFI)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Kansas City to Seattle. While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is significantly more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The approach to Seattle offers Lake Washington and the Cascade Range—two major geographic features that make the left side the better overall choice for this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Kansas City International in Kansas City?
During takeoff from Kansas City International (MCI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Missouri River's distinctive meanders as they curve through Kansas City during initial climb. You'll see the river's oxbow bends and the downtown skyline receding to the left, with suburban sprawl extending eastward on the right. Notable sights include: Missouri River with visible meanders, Kansas City downtown skyline, Interstate 70 corridor heading east, suburban Kansas City sprawl.
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 side provides the best views during approach to BFI. You'll see Lake Washington and the Cascade Range as you descend, with the lake's distinctive shape and the snow-capped peaks providing dramatic context for Seattle's geography. Notable sights include: Lake Washington, Cascade Range peaks (Mount Rainier visible on clear days), Puget Sound, Seattle downtown and waterfront.
How long is the flight from Kansas City to Seattle?
The flight from Kansas City International (MCI) to Boeing Fld King Co International (BFI) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,487 miles (2,393 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Kansas City to Seattle flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Great Plains heading northwest, passing over eastern Colorado and Wyoming. Notable features include the South Platte River valley near Denver (visible around 1.5 hours out), the Rocky Mountain Front near the Colorado-Wyoming border, and the Bighorn Mountains in north-central Wyoming. As you approach the Pacific Northwest around 3 hours into the flight, the Cascade Range becomes visible on the left side of the aircraft, with Mount Hood appearing near the Oregon-Washington border before final descent into Seattle.