While the landing approach favors the left, the takeoff from Montreal offers more sustained scenic interest with the St. Lawrence River and Laurentian Mountains clearly visible during the critical early climb phase when passengers are most engaged. Right-side seats capture this premium segment.
Flown YUL to SEA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Montreal to Seattle is 2,278 miles (3,666 km), a flight of about 5 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Great Lakes region (Lake Ontario visible on the left during early cruise, Lake Michigan further west), then transitions over the agricultural plains of the American Midwest. The Appalachian foothills fade into flatter terrain around Ohio and Indiana. As the aircraft approaches the Pacific Northwest, the Rocky Mountains appear on the horizon around Montana/Idaho, with the Cascade Range becoming increasingly prominent as the aircraft descends toward Seattle.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from YUL
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the St. Lawrence River and the Laurentian Mountains as the aircraft climbs northwest out of Montreal. The river's distinctive curves and the forested ridge line of the Laurentians are clearly visible during the initial climb.
Landing at SEA
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Seattle. You'll see the Cascade Range to the east, with Mount Rainier often visible as a prominent snow-capped peak, plus Puget Sound's complex waterways and the San Juan Islands to the north.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Montreal International Dorval (YUL) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Montreal to Seattle. While the landing approach favors the left, the takeoff from Montreal offers more sustained scenic interest with the St. Lawrence River and Laurentian Mountains clearly visible during the critical early climb phase when passengers are most engaged. Right-side seats capture this premium segment.
What can I see during takeoff from Montreal International Dorval in Montreal?
During takeoff from Montreal International Dorval (YUL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the St. Lawrence River and the Laurentian Mountains as the aircraft climbs northwest out of Montreal. The river's distinctive curves and the forested ridge line of the Laurentians are clearly visible during the initial climb. Notable sights include: St. Lawrence River, Laurentian Mountains, Montreal urban sprawl, Ottawa River valley.
What can I see when landing at Seattle Tacoma International in Seattle?
When landing at Seattle Tacoma International (SEA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Seattle. You'll see the Cascade Range to the east, with Mount Rainier often visible as a prominent snow-capped peak, plus Puget Sound's complex waterways and the San Juan Islands to the north. Notable sights include: Cascade Range with Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, San Juan Islands, Lake Washington.
How long is the flight from Montreal to Seattle?
The flight from Montreal International Dorval (YUL) to Seattle Tacoma International (SEA) takes about 5 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,278 miles (3,666 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Montreal to Seattle flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Great Lakes region (Lake Ontario visible on the left during early cruise, Lake Michigan further west), then transitions over the agricultural plains of the American Midwest. The Appalachian foothills fade into flatter terrain around Ohio and Indiana. As the aircraft approaches the Pacific Northwest, the Rocky Mountains appear on the horizon around Montana/Idaho, with the Cascade Range becoming increasingly prominent as the aircraft descends toward Seattle.