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KTN → SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Ketchikan International Airport (Ketchikan) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is superior for this route as it faces the mainland, offering continuous views of the massive Coast Mountains of British Columbia, the intricate fjords of the Inside Passage, and a spectacular approach into Seattle passing Mount Baker.
Tongass National Forest
Dense, temperate rainforest and deep blue waterways immediately following takeoff from Ketchikan.
BC Coast Mountains
An endless chain of rugged, snow-capped peaks and glaciers stretching along the British Columbia coastline.
The Inside Passage
Bird's-eye view of the narrow marine routes used by cruise ships and ferries navigating between islands.
Vancouver Cityscape
On clear days, see the dense skyline of downtown Vancouver and the Lions Gate Bridge.
Mount Baker
The massive, ice-covered stratovolcano dominates the horizon as the flight crosses the US-Canada border.
Seattle & Lake Washington
Stunning views of the Space Needle, downtown skyscrapers, and the floating bridges on approach.
Sit on the left for the best morning light on the mountains. This side is also preferred for the 'standard' approach into SEA, which often flies south over Lake Washington, providing iconic views of the city. Keep your camera ready about 25-30 minutes before landing for Mount Baker.
Haida Gwaii
The remote and culturally significant archipelago formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands.
Hecate Strait
The wide, wild body of water separating the mainland from the outer islands of the Pacific.
Vancouver Island West Coast
The rugged, windswept western edge of Vancouver Island facing the open Pacific Ocean.
Olympic Mountains
The jagged, snow-dusted peaks of Olympic National Park visible during the descent into Washington.
Puget Sound Islands
Views of Whidbey, Bainbridge, and Vashon Islands dotted with ferries and sailboats.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. It offers a more 'maritime' perspective of the route. During the final approach into SEA, you will have a great view of the Olympic Peninsula and the ship traffic in the Puget Sound.
Distance: 1,093 km (679 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min
Departure: KTN (55.35559845, -131.7140045)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: Domestic
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