About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Ninoy Aquino International (MNL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seattle to Manila. Left side wins both ends of the flight. At takeoff you get the Cascades and Mount Rainier; on landing you get Manila Bay and the city. The transoceanic cruise over the North Pacific offers little to distinguish sides, but the bookend views make left the clear choice for the whole journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Seattle Tacoma International in Seattle?
During takeoff from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA), sit on the Left side for the best views. SEA primarily uses runways 16L/16R for southbound departures, meaning a left-side seat faces east toward the Cascade Range. You get a clear view of Mount Rainier dominating the skyline, with the Seattle city skyline and Elliott Bay visible during the initial climb before the aircraft turns northwest. Notable sights include: Mount Rainier (14,411 ft), Elliott Bay and Seattle waterfront, Lake Washington, Cascade Range foothills.
What can I see when landing at Ninoy Aquino International in Manila?
When landing at Ninoy Aquino International (MNL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Ninoy Aquino International typically uses runway 06/24 or 13/31 approaches from the west or northwest. On approach from the north over Manila Bay, a left-side seat faces south and east, giving views of Manila Bay's broad expanse, the Manila city skyline, and Laguna de Bay beyond. The right side faces open South China Sea with little of interest. Notable sights include: Manila Bay, Laguna de Bay, Manila city skyline and Rizal Park area, Bataan Peninsula across the bay.
How long is the flight from Seattle to Manila?
The flight from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Ninoy Aquino International (MNL) takes Approximately 12 to 13 hours.
What does the Seattle to Manila flight path pass over?
The great circle route arcs northwest over the Gulf of Alaska and Aleutian Islands chain before descending southwest across the North Pacific. Passengers may glimpse Aleutian volcanic peaks on clear days near Unalaska and the Islands of Four Mountains. The route then crosses open North Pacific ocean for the majority of the flight, passing south of the Kamchatka Peninsula and east of Japan before descending toward Luzon and the Philippine archipelago from the north.