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KOA → SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Ellison Onizuka Kona International At Keahole Airport (Kona) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior viewing experience, featuring the Hawaiian island chain upon departure and a spectacular 'Volcano Row' sequence of the Cascade Mountains during the descent into Seattle.
Big Island Volcanoes
Dramatic views of Mauna Kea and the Kohala coast immediately after taking off from Kona.
The Aloha Chain
Views of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai as the flight path tracks north-northeast away from the islands.
Mount Rainier
The crown jewel of the Pacific Northwest, appearing massive and majestic on the right side during the descent.
Mount St. Helens
Look for the distinct horseshoe-shaped crater left by the 1980 eruption as you pass through Southern Washington.
Mount Adams
Another massive stratovolcano in the Cascades that is frequently visible alongside Rainier.
The right side is the 'Volcano Side.' For the best views of the Hawaiian islands, morning flights are preferred to avoid heavy cloud buildup over the peaks. Upon arrival in Seattle, Mount Rainier will be extremely close; if the flight arrives from the south, it will be the most prominent feature for several minutes during the descent. Sit behind the wing to ensure your view of the mountains isn't obstructed.
Pacific Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the vast Pacific Ocean, perfect for spotting cloud formations and sunrises or sunsets depending on flight timing.
Olympic Mountains
The rugged, glaciated peaks of Olympic National Park are visible as the plane nears the Washington coastline.
Puget Sound
A bird's-eye view of the intricate waterways, islands, and ferry routes that define the Seattle metropolitan area.
Seattle Skyline
On a typical southerly approach (Runway 16), passengers get a clear view of the Space Needle and the downtown skyscrapers.
Choose the left side for evening flights to enjoy the sunset over the Pacific. On the approach to SEA, if the plane is landing to the south, the left side provides a better view of the downtown Seattle skyline and the stadiums. Have your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the Olympic Peninsula coastline.
Distance: 4,327 km (2,689 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 5 min
Departure: KOA (19.738783, -156.045603)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: Domestic
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