About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Merrill Fld (MRI)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seattle to Anchorage. The right side delivers the most dramatic single view of the flight — Mount Rainier on departure is one of the most visually striking moments in Pacific Northwest aviation. The right side also tracks the British Columbia and Southeast Alaska coastline during the cruise portion, with glimpses of the Coast Mountains and fjords. The left side wins on landing but the departure and en-route scenery tips the balance right.
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 primarily uses runways 16L/16R for southward departures, then turns northwest toward Alaska. On the northbound climb-out, the right side faces east toward the Cascade Range with Mount Rainier dominating the skyline. You also get a clear view of Lake Washington and the Seattle city grid as the aircraft banks. Notable sights include: Mount Rainier (14,411 ft), Lake Washington, Seattle city center and Elliott Bay, Cascade Range foothills.
What can I see when landing at Merrill Fld in Anchorage?
When landing at Merrill Fld (MRI), sit on the Left side for the best views. Merrill Field is a small general aviation airport in downtown Anchorage. Approaches typically come in from the south or east over Cook Inlet and the Anchorage bowl. The left side faces west and south, giving views of Cook Inlet, the Alaska Range on the horizon, and the dramatic Chugach Mountains framing the city. Notable sights include: Cook Inlet, Chugach Mountains, Knik Arm, Anchorage city grid.
How long is the flight from Seattle to Anchorage?
The flight from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Merrill Fld (MRI) takes Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 45 minutes depending on routing and winds.
What does the Seattle to Anchorage flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northwest over British Columbia, crossing the Coast Mountains with their heavily glaciated peaks and deep fjords. The Inside Passage corridor is visible below with its maze of islands and channels. Over Southeast Alaska, the St. Elias Range and Wrangell Mountains appear to the northeast with extensive icefields. The Chugach Mountains frame the final descent into Anchorage from the east.