About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to Seattle. Left side wins both ends of the flight. During the cruise over the Pacific Northwest interior, left-side passengers also get better views of the Cascades as the flight tracks northwest, with volcanic peaks like Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens appearing on the left horizon before landing.
What can I see during takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
During takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Left side for the best views. PHX primarily uses runways 7R/25L and 8/26. Departing westbound toward Seattle, a left-side seat faces south, giving clear views of South Mountain Park and the broad Salt River valley. The Phoenix metro grid is laid out clearly below, and Camelback Mountain is visible to the northeast as the aircraft climbs and banks northwest. Notable sights include: South Mountain Park, Camelback Mountain, Salt River bed, Phoenix downtown grid.
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 primarily lands on runways 16L/16R from the north, meaning the approach comes from the north heading south. A left-side seat faces east during this approach, giving direct views of Mount Rainier dominating the southeastern horizon and the full expanse of Puget Sound to the right. Elliott Bay and downtown Seattle are visible to the northeast as the aircraft descends. Notable sights include: Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, Elliott Bay and Seattle skyline, Lake Washington.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to Seattle?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) takes Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours.
What does the Phoenix to Seattle flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northwest over central Nevada's Basin and Range desert, crossing the high desert plateau near Elko. Over southern Oregon the terrain rises into the Blue Mountains and high lava plateau country. Entering Washington state, the Columbia River is visible as a major silver ribbon cutting through the landscape. The southern Cascade volcanoes — Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens — appear on the left side as the flight descends toward Seattle, with Mount Rainier growing prominent ahead.