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PEK → SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is superior for this transpacific journey, primarily due to the rare and spectacular views of the Kamchatka Peninsula's volcanic range in Russia and a better angle for the rugged Olympic Mountains upon arrival in Washington state.
Beijing Departure
Clear views of the sprawling Beijing metropolis and the outskirts of the North China Plain shortly after takeoff.
Greater Khingan Range
Dense forest coverage and rolling hills of Northeast China as the plane heads toward the Russian border.
Kamchatka Volcanoes
A stunning chain of active, snow-capped volcanoes including Klyuchevskaya Sopka, often visible from high altitude over Eastern Russia.
Bering Sea Coastline
Dramatic views of the jagged Russian Far East coastline and occasional sea ice during winter months.
Olympic Mountains
The snow-covered peaks of the Olympic Peninsula provide a grand entrance into Washington State airspace.
The Kamchatka Peninsula usually appears roughly 4 to 5 hours into the flight; set an alarm as this is the highlight. During winter, look for the intricate patterns of sea ice in the Bering Sea. On approach to SEA, the left side offers a better view of the Puget Sound islands and the Olympic National Park.
The Infinite Sunrise
Crossing the International Date Line eastbound often creates a uniquely prolonged sunrise or sunset effect over the Pacific.
Aleutian Islands
If the flight path takes a more southerly track, you may spot the remote, volcanic islands of the Aleutian chain.
Seattle Skyline
On final approach from the north, enjoy a perfect view of the Space Needle and downtown Seattle skyscrapers.
Mount Rainier
The iconic, massive stratovolcano looms large to the south of the airport during the descent into SEA.
Keep your window shade open during the final 20 minutes of the flight. If the plane lands toward the south (the most common pattern), the right side offers the legendary view of Mount Rainier. This side is also best for capturing the long-lasting golden hour glow while crossing the Pacific.
Distance: 8,679 km (5,393 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 13 min
Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: International
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