The takeoff views of Mount Rainier and the Cascade Range are more dramatic and consistently visible than the landing approach. While Auckland's approach offers good harbor and island views, Mount Rainier is a more iconic and visually striking landmark that dominates the early flight segment.
Flown SEA to AKL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Seattle to Auckland is 7,005 miles (11,274 km), a flight of about 13 hours 30 minutes.
The flight path crosses the North Pacific Ocean with no visible landmarks for the majority of the journey. Passengers will see open ocean, occasional cloud formations, and the curvature of the Earth at cruising altitude. As the aircraft approaches New Zealand airspace after crossing the International Date Line, the first landfall is typically the North Island's northern tip near Cape Reinga, followed by views of the Bay of Islands and eventually the approach to Auckland from the north.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from SEA
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Cascade Range and Mount Rainier during the initial climb-out heading south-southeast. The mountain is positioned perfectly on the right wing as the aircraft gains altitude over Puget Sound.
Landing at AKL
LEFTLeft-side seats provide the best views during approach to Auckland. The aircraft descends from the north-northwest over the Tasman Sea, and left-side passengers see the Waitakere Ranges and Auckland's isthmus with the Hauraki Gulf clearly visible before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Auckland International (AKL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seattle to Auckland. The takeoff views of Mount Rainier and the Cascade Range are more dramatic and consistently visible than the landing approach. While Auckland's approach offers good harbor and island views, Mount Rainier is a more iconic and visually striking landmark that dominates the early flight segment.
What can I see during takeoff from Seattle Tacoma International in Seattle?
During takeoff from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Cascade Range and Mount Rainier during the initial climb-out heading south-southeast. The mountain is positioned perfectly on the right wing as the aircraft gains altitude over Puget Sound. Notable sights include: Mount Rainier (14,411 ft), Cascade Range, Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains to the west.
What can I see when landing at Auckland International in Auckland?
When landing at Auckland International (AKL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide the best views during approach to Auckland. The aircraft descends from the north-northwest over the Tasman Sea, and left-side passengers see the Waitakere Ranges and Auckland's isthmus with the Hauraki Gulf clearly visible before touchdown. Notable sights include: Hauraki Gulf, Waitakere Ranges, Auckland isthmus and harbors, Rangitoto Island.
How long is the flight from Seattle to Auckland?
The flight from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Auckland International (AKL) takes about 13 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 7,005 miles (11,274 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Seattle to Auckland flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Pacific Ocean with no visible landmarks for the majority of the journey. Passengers will see open ocean, occasional cloud formations, and the curvature of the Earth at cruising altitude. As the aircraft approaches New Zealand airspace after crossing the International Date Line, the first landfall is typically the North Island's northern tip near Cape Reinga, followed by views of the Bay of Islands and eventually the approach to Auckland from the north.