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PVG β SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Shanghai) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this transpacific route, offering rare views of Russia's volcanic Kamchatka Peninsula and the stunning glaciated coastlines of Alaska.
East China Sea
Vibrant blue waters and busy shipping lanes shortly after takeoff from Pudong.
Kamchatka Volcanic Belt
Dramatic views of snow-capped volcanoes and rugged Siberian peaks in eastern Russia.
Aleutian Island Chain
A glimpse of the northern edge of the volcanic islands stretching across the Pacific.
Glacier Bay Coastline
The majestic glaciers and fjords of the Alaskan panhandle as the plane heads south.
Olympic National Forest
Lush green peaks and the rugged coastline of Washington state during the descent.
Observe the dramatic Siberian coastline and Kamchatkaβs volcanoes approximately 4 to 5 hours after departure. On night flights, this side provides the best chance to spot the Aurora Borealis over high latitudes. During the descent, the Olympic Mountains will appear shortly before landing.
Northern Japan
Distant views of the Hokkaido coastline and the northern tip of Honshu.
North Pacific Expanse
Vast ocean horizons that transition into spectacular sunrises or sunsets depending on timing.
Vancouver Island
The beautiful, rugged western coast of Canada and its numerous small islands.
Strait of Juan de Fuca
The busy waterway separating the United States and Canada during the final approach.
Seattle Skyline
A classic view of the Space Needle and downtown skyscrapers if approaching from the north.
Watch for the Japanese coastline roughly 2 hours after departure. The right side is particularly scenic during the descent into SEA, offering views of the Puget Sound. On clear days, look south for the massive silhouette of Mount Rainier, which can often be seen looming over the horizon.
Distance: 9,188 km (5,709 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 49 min
Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: International
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