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PDX → SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Portland International Airport (Portland) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a world-class tour of the Cascade Range's most iconic volcanoes, providing incredibly close-up views of Mount St. Helens and Mount Rainier.
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Mount St. Helens
A spectacular view directly into the horseshoe-shaped crater and the pumice plain created by the 1980 eruption.
Mount Adams
The second-highest peak in Washington is visible just to the east of Mount St. Helens.
Mount Rainier
The highlight of the trip; the flight path often passes within miles of this 14,411-foot glaciated giant.
Gifford Pinchot Forest
Endless stretches of evergreen forests and mountain ridges between the volcanic peaks.
The right side is essential for mountain lovers. Because the flight is very short (often under 40 minutes), be ready with your camera immediately after takeoff. Morning flights provide the best lighting on the mountains' western faces. Try to sit well forward or aft of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the St. Helens crater.
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Columbia River
Aerial view of the massive waterway and Sauvie Island immediately following takeoff from PDX.
Washington State Capitol
The distinct white dome of the Capitol building in Olympia is visible as the plane approaches the southern Puget Sound.
Tacoma Narrows Bridge
The twin suspension bridges spanning the Sound are visible during the initial descent phase.
Seattle Skyline
If the flight lands to the north, you get a sweeping view of downtown Seattle, the Space Needle, and Elliott Bay.
Sit on the left if you prefer water views and cityscapes. If the airport is landing to the north (Runway 34L/C/R), the left side gets the best view of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. This side is also better for sunset views on evening flights.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 208 km (129 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 21 min
Departure: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: Domestic
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