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PEK destination photo
SEA destination photo

PEKSEA

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌅

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.

Top Activities in Seattle
Route Information

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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