The right side wins both the departure, with clear views of the Cascade volcanoes north of Portland, and the arrival, with Kauai's south shore harbor and mountains visible on final approach. The left side offers mostly flat valley and open ocean with no comparable landmarks.
Flown PDX to LIH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Portland to Lihue is 2,630 miles (4,232 km), a flight of about 5 hours 50 minutes.
Open Pacific Ocean with no landmasses for the majority of the cruise phase
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PDX
RIGHTDeparting PDX on runway 28 (the prevailing configuration), the climb-out heads west before curving slightly south toward Hawaii, putting the Cascade volcanoes on the right side. Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, and even distant Mt. Rainier are visible to the north as the aircraft gains altitude over the Columbia River basin.
Landing at LIH
RIGHTLihue's prevailing runway 03 approach brings aircraft in from the southwest, tracking along Kauai's south shore before the final turn. This puts Nawiliwili Harbor, Kalapaki Beach, and the Hoary Head mountain ridge on the right side of the cabin during the descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Portland International (PDX) to Lihue (LIH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Portland to Lihue. The right side wins both the departure, with clear views of the Cascade volcanoes north of Portland, and the arrival, with Kauai's south shore harbor and mountains visible on final approach. The left side offers mostly flat valley and open ocean with no comparable landmarks.
What can I see during takeoff from Portland International in Portland?
During takeoff from Portland International (PDX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing PDX on runway 28 (the prevailing configuration), the climb-out heads west before curving slightly south toward Hawaii, putting the Cascade volcanoes on the right side. Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, and even distant Mt. Rainier are visible to the north as the aircraft gains altitude over the Columbia River basin. Notable sights include: Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier (distant), Columbia River.
What can I see when landing at Lihue in Lihue?
When landing at Lihue (LIH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Lihue's prevailing runway 03 approach brings aircraft in from the southwest, tracking along Kauai's south shore before the final turn. This puts Nawiliwili Harbor, Kalapaki Beach, and the Hoary Head mountain ridge on the right side of the cabin during the descent. Notable sights include: Nawiliwili Harbor, Kalapaki Beach, Hoary Head Range, Menehune Fishpond.
How long is the flight from Portland to Lihue?
The flight from Portland International (PDX) to Lihue (LIH) takes about 5 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,630 miles (4,232 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Portland to Lihue flight path pass over?
Open Pacific Ocean with no landmasses for the majority of the cruise phase