About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Reno Tahoe International (RNO)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seattle to Reno. The left side delivers the best views at both ends of the flight. During the cruise portion heading south-southeast, the left side also tracks closer to the Oregon Cascades including Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge area, while the right side faces the open Pacific. Left wins the full flight.
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 the aircraft heads south-southeast. The left side faces east toward the Cascade Range, giving clear views of Mount Rainier dominating the skyline. Elliott Bay and downtown Seattle also swing into view on the left during the initial climb and turn. Notable sights include: Mount Rainier, Elliott Bay and downtown Seattle skyline, Lake Washington, Cascade Range foothills.
What can I see when landing at Reno Tahoe International in Reno?
When landing at Reno Tahoe International (RNO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Reno typically uses runway 16R/34L, and arrivals from the north often come in on runway 16R heading south. On approach from the north, the left side faces east toward the Virginia Range and the dramatic high desert basin containing Reno, with Pyramid Lake visible to the northeast during descent. The Sierra Nevada crest is better seen from the right, but the Truckee Meadows basin and city layout are clearest on the left. Notable sights include: Pyramid Lake, Truckee Meadows basin and Reno city grid, Virginia Range, Sparks urban area.
How long is the flight from Seattle to Reno?
The flight from Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) to Reno Tahoe International (RNO) takes Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes.
What does the Seattle to Reno flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Oregon Cascades including views of Mount Hood and Mount Jefferson, then transitions over the high desert of central Oregon and northern Nevada. The Columbia River may be visible during the Oregon crossing. South of the Cascades the terrain flattens into the Great Basin, with the Warner Mountains and Steens Mountain area of southeastern Oregon visible before crossing into Nevada's Basin and Range topography approaching Reno.