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MSO → SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Missoula International Airport (Missoula) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled, close-up perspective of Mount Rainier and the southern Cascades during the descent into Seattle.
Bitterroot Mountains
Rugged, snow-capped peaks immediately visible after departing Missoula.
The Palouse
Rolling hills and colorful agricultural patterns of eastern Washington.
Mount Rainier
The star of the show; this massive volcano dominates the window for the final 20 minutes.
Mount Adams & St. Helens
On clear days, these two iconic peaks are visible further to the south.
Tacoma Narrows
Views of the Puget Sound and the famous suspension bridges during the approach.
Sit on the left for the most dramatic views of Mount Rainier. For morning flights, the sun will be behind you, illuminating the mountains perfectly. In winter, the contrast of snow against the dark evergreen forests is spectacular.
Lake Coeur d'Alene
A stunning view of the sprawling blue lake as you cross the Idaho panhandle.
Spokane
Aerial view of the 'Lilac City' and the Spokane River winding through the valley.
Grand Coulee Area
Deep basalt canyons and the stark beauty of the Columbia Basin desert.
Glacier Peak
The jagged, ice-covered summits of the North Cascades visible in the distance.
Seattle Skyline
If landing to the north, you may catch a glimpse of the Space Needle and downtown.
The right side is excellent for seeing the deep blue of the northern Idaho lakes. If the airport is landing to the north (Runway 34), you might see the Seattle city center. Afternoon flights offer warmer light on the northern range peaks.
Distance: 624 km (388 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 2 min
Departure: MSO (46.91630173, -114.0910034)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: Domestic
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