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HLN → SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Helena Regional Airport (Helena) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is the clear winner for this route as it provides a front-row seat to the magnificent Mount Rainier and the southern Cascade volcanoes during the descent into the Puget Sound.
Elkhorn Mountains
Rising immediately south of Helena, these peaks offer rugged terrain views right after takeoff.
Bitterroot Mountains
A vast expanse of dense forest and sharp ridges marking the border between Montana and Idaho.
The Palouse
Unique, rolling loess hills that create a mesmerizing patchwork pattern across Eastern Washington.
Mount Rainier
The crown jewel of the Pacific Northwest, appearing massive and glacier-clad on the approach to SEA.
Mount Adams & St. Helens
On clear days, these two iconic volcanoes are visible further south along the Cascade line.
Sit on the left (Port) side for the most iconic views of Mount Rainier. During morning flights, the sun will be behind you, illuminating the mountains perfectly. In winter, the snow-covered Cascades are particularly breathtaking. Try to get a seat away from the wing to ensure an unobstructed downward view of the Palouse hills.
Lake Coeur d'Alene
A stunning blue lake nestled in the Idaho panhandle, often visible shortly after crossing the Bitterroots.
Columbia River
Watch for the massive river carving through the high desert plateau of Central Washington.
Alpine Lakes Wilderness
The jagged, snow-dusted peaks of the North Cascades, including the famous Enchantments area.
Seattle Skyline
If the plane lands toward the South, you will see the Space Needle, downtown skyscrapers, and Elliott Bay.
Puget Sound
Views of the various islands and ferries traversing the water as you line up for the runway.
The right side is best if you prefer views of the North Cascades and a potential look at the Seattle skyline during the final approach. If the airport is 'landing north' (common in certain weather), the right side offers a spectacular view of the city and Lake Washington. Keep an eye out for Lake Pend Oreille in the distance to the north early in the flight.
Distance: 788 km (490 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min
Departure: HLN (46.6068000793457, -111.98300170898438)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: Domestic
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