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IAD → SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most iconic views of the Pacific Northwest, specifically a close-up look at Mount Rainier during the descent into Seattle, along with the dramatic peaks of the southern Rockies.
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Shenandoah Valley
Shortly after takeoff, view the rolling green ridges of the Appalachian Mountains in Virginia.
The Mississippi River
A major waypoint providing a clear view of the winding river boundary between the Midwest states.
Grand Tetons
On clear days, the jagged granite spires of Wyoming's Teton Range are visible in the distance.
The Rocky Mountains
Expansive views of the high-altitude peaks as the flight crosses the continental divide.
Mount Rainier
The absolute highlight; this massive, glaciated stratovolcano appears remarkably close during the final approach to SEA.
Book a window seat on the left (port) side for the highest probability of seeing Mount Rainier. For the best lighting, take a morning flight when the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the mountains. During the descent, keep your camera ready as the plane often banks right, putting the volcano directly in view.
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Chicago Skyline
Depending on the specific corridor, you can often see the Sears Tower and the Lake Michigan shoreline.
South Dakota Badlands
The striking, colorful geometric erosion of the Badlands is visible when flying a more northerly route.
The North Cascades
Deeply glaciated and rugged peaks of northern Washington state visible before the descent begins.
Downtown Seattle
If landing to the south on Runway 16, the right side gets a perfect view of the Space Needle and Elliott Bay.
The right side is better for spotting the Great Lakes and the unique landscape of the Black Hills. If the winds dictate a southern landing (Runway 16), the right side provides a superior view of the Seattle city skyline and the Olympic Mountains in the far distance.
Book Hotels in SeattleDistance: 3,702 km (2,300 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 21 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: Domestic
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