About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Kona International At Keahole (KOA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seattle to Kona. The left side misses the best of Seattle departure but delivers the extraordinary volcanic panorama on descent into Kona — Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa together are among the most spectacular approach views in the Pacific. Over the open ocean mid-flight both sides are equivalent, so the Kona arrival tips the balance decisively to the left.
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. SEA typically departs south on runway 16L/16R, then turns right (west then southwest) toward the Pacific. The right side gives you a clear view of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic Peninsula before the aircraft heads out over Puget Sound. The left side faces east toward the Cascades but the turn away from them happens quickly. Notable sights include: Elliott Bay and downtown Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, Olympic Peninsula and Olympic Mountains, Vashon Island.
What can I see when landing at Kona International At Keahole in Kona?
When landing at Kona International At Keahole (KOA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Kona International typically uses runway 17 (southward landing) or runway 35 (northward landing). On approach from the northeast over the Pacific, the left side faces east toward the Big Island's interior, giving a direct view of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa — two of the most visually dramatic volcanoes on Earth — as the aircraft descends along the Kohala Coast. The right side faces west over open ocean. Notable sights include: Mauna Kea (13,796 ft, often snow-capped), Mauna Loa (13,679 ft), Kohala Coast lava fields, Hualalai volcano.
How long is the flight from Seattle to Kona?
The flight from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Kona International At Keahole (KOA) takes Approximately 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours.
What does the Seattle to Kona flight path pass over?
The route crosses the open North Pacific Ocean with no significant landmasses. At cruising altitude you may see the occasional cloud system or storm cell over the open water. The Hawaiian Island chain becomes visible from the left side roughly 45-60 minutes before landing, with Maui's Haleakala crater visible as a distant shield volcano to the southeast before the Big Island comes into view.