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SEA → BWI
Which side of the plane to sit from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle) to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (Baltimore)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior primarily due to the spectacular, close-up views of Mount Rainier immediately after departure from Seattle, followed by the striking geology of the Badlands and the Chesapeake Bay approach.
Mount Rainier
The most iconic sight on the route; the massive volcanic peak towers over the landscape south of the flight path.
Cascade Volcanoes
On clear days, you can spot Mount Adams and the blast zone of Mount St. Helens to the south.
South Dakota Badlands
Intricate, multi-colored rock formations and deep canyons visible over the Great Plains.
Chicago Skyline
Depending on the jet stream, the plane often passes just south of the city, offering views of the Willis Tower.
Chesapeake Bay
The sparkling waters and intricate coastline of the bay are a highlight of the final minutes of flight.
The right side is a must for the departure; Mount Rainier is often so close it feels within reach. To avoid glare while taking photos of the mountains, choose a morning flight when the sun is to the north/east or an evening flight for a golden-hour glow on the peaks.
North Cascades
Rugged, glacier-scarred peaks of the Pacific Northwest stretching toward the Canadian border.
Lake Michigan
The deep blue expanse of the Great Lakes, often showcasing the coastline of Wisconsin and Michigan.
Appalachian Mountains
The ancient, rolling green ridges of Pennsylvania and Maryland visible during the descent.
Baltimore Inner Harbor
A bird's-eye view of the historic waterfront and city skyline depending on the landing runway.
Sit on the left if you prefer views of the Great Lakes. For morning flights, this side will be shaded from the direct sun. During the final approach into BWI, keep an eye out for the Susquehanna River and the northern reaches of the Chesapeake.
Distance: 3,748 km (2,329 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 25 min
Departure: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Arrival: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)
Route Type: Domestic
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