While left offers dramatic Andes views at takeoff, right provides superior scenery for most of the flight. The approach into Seattle showcases Mount Rainier and the Cascade Range—two of the most visually striking features on this route. The right side also captures Puget Sound and the Pacific Northwest landscape during descent.
Flown SCL to SEA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Santiago to Seattle is 6,433 miles (10,353 km), a flight of about 12 hours 25 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Pacific Ocean for roughly 4-5 hours with no significant landmarks visible. Departing Santiago heading north-northwest, the aircraft climbs over the Andes, then tracks across the Pacific. Approaching North America, the Oregon and Washington coasts become visible, with the Cascade Range appearing 1-2 hours before landing. The Willamette Valley in Oregon and the Puget Sound basin define the final descent corridor into Seattle.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SCL
LEFTLeft side offers immediate views of the Andes Mountains rising dramatically to the east of Santiago. The cordillera dominates the eastern horizon during climb-out, with snow-capped peaks visible on clear days.
Landing at SEA
RIGHTRight side provides excellent views of the Cascade Range and Mount Rainier during descent into Seattle. The volcanic peak is iconic and clearly visible from the east on approach vectors, dominating the landscape south of the airport.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Santiago to Seattle. While left offers dramatic Andes views at takeoff, right provides superior scenery for most of the flight. The approach into Seattle showcases Mount Rainier and the Cascade Range—two of the most visually striking features on this route. The right side also captures Puget Sound and the Pacific Northwest landscape during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Arturo Merino Benitez International in Santiago?
During takeoff from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers immediate views of the Andes Mountains rising dramatically to the east of Santiago. The cordillera dominates the eastern horizon during climb-out, with snow-capped peaks visible on clear days. Notable sights include: Andes Mountains (Cordillera Principal), Santiago urban sprawl, Maipo River valley, Central Valley floor.
What can I see when landing at Seattle Tacoma International in Seattle?
When landing at Seattle Tacoma International (SEA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views of the Cascade Range and Mount Rainier during descent into Seattle. The volcanic peak is iconic and clearly visible from the east on approach vectors, dominating the landscape south of the airport. Notable sights include: Mount Rainier (14,411 ft), Cascade Range, Puget Sound, Lake Washington.
How long is the flight from Santiago to Seattle?
The flight from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) takes about 12 hours 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 6,433 miles (10,353 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Santiago to Seattle flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Pacific Ocean for roughly 4-5 hours with no significant landmarks visible. Departing Santiago heading north-northwest, the aircraft climbs over the Andes, then tracks across the Pacific. Approaching North America, the Oregon and Washington coasts become visible, with the Cascade Range appearing 1-2 hours before landing. The Willamette Valley in Oregon and the Puget Sound basin define the final descent corridor into Seattle.