The right side wins overall due to the exceptional Mount Rainier view during takeoff, which is a guaranteed highlight. The landing approach offers less dramatic scenery on either side, so the strong takeoff advantage determines the overall recommendation.
Flown SEA to KHH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Seattle to Kaohsiung is 6,234 miles (10,033 km), a flight of about 11 hours 30 minutes.
The flight path crosses the North Pacific, passing north of Hawaii (typically 200+ miles north, not visible). Notable waypoints include the Aleutian Islands region (far north of track), then the open Pacific. As the aircraft approaches Taiwan, it may pass near or over the Ryukyu Islands (southern Japan) depending on exact routing, though these are often 100+ miles north of the standard approach corridor. The most significant midpoint feature is simply the vast open Pacific Ocean with no visible landmarks for roughly 8-9 hours of flight time.
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 southeast. The mountain is directly on the departure corridor and dominates the early ascent phase.
Landing at KHH
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of the Taiwan Strait and the Taiwanese coastline as the aircraft descends toward Kaohsiung from the northwest. The approach path brings the western coast and harbor into clear view on the left side.
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 Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Kaohsiung International (KHH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seattle to Kaohsiung. The right side wins overall due to the exceptional Mount Rainier view during takeoff, which is a guaranteed highlight. The landing approach offers less dramatic scenery on either side, so the strong takeoff advantage determines the overall recommendation.
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 southeast. The mountain is directly on the departure corridor and dominates the early ascent phase. Notable sights include: Mount Rainier (14,411 ft), Cascade Range, Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains to the west.
What can I see when landing at Kaohsiung International in Kaohsiung?
When landing at Kaohsiung International (KHH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the Taiwan Strait and the Taiwanese coastline as the aircraft descends toward Kaohsiung from the northwest. The approach path brings the western coast and harbor into clear view on the left side. Notable sights include: Taiwan Strait, Kaohsiung Harbor, Gaoping River delta, Kaohsiung city grid.
How long is the flight from Seattle to Kaohsiung?
The flight from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Kaohsiung International (KHH) takes about 11 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 6,234 miles (10,033 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Seattle to Kaohsiung flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Pacific, passing north of Hawaii (typically 200+ miles north, not visible). Notable waypoints include the Aleutian Islands region (far north of track), then the open Pacific. As the aircraft approaches Taiwan, it may pass near or over the Ryukyu Islands (southern Japan) depending on exact routing, though these are often 100+ miles north of the standard approach corridor. The most significant midpoint feature is simply the vast open Pacific Ocean with no visible landmarks for roughly 8-9 hours of flight time.