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SEA destination photo
FRA destination photo

SEAFRA

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is the clear winner for this polar route, offering the most dramatic views of the Greenland ice sheet and the highest probability of witnessing the Aurora Borealis during night segments.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏔️

Mount Baker

A stunning view of this massive stratovolcano shortly after departure from Seattle.

🇨🇦

Canadian Rockies

Aerial perspective of the jagged, snow-capped peaks of British Columbia and Alberta.

❄️

Greenland Ice Sheet

Massive glaciers, deep fjords, and the vast white expanse of the world's second-largest ice body.

🌌

Aurora Borealis

Exceptional views of the Northern Lights on overnight flights, particularly between September and April.

🇮🇸

Icelandic Coast

Rugged volcanic coastlines and glacial rivers visible if the path tracks slightly south.

For the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights, choose a seat toward the back of the wing to avoid engine glare. Use a flight tracker to time the Greenland crossing, which usually occurs 4-5 hours after departure. Note that these flights are mostly overnight; if traveling in summer, you may experience near-constant twilight over the Arctic.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌋

Mount Rainier

The iconic 14,411-foot peak of Washington state is often visible during the initial climb.

🌊

Hudson Bay

Interesting patterns of sea ice and the transition from tundra to water in Northern Canada.

🇬🇧

UK Coastline

First sight of Europe usually includes the rugged cliffs of Scotland or Northern England.

🚢

North Sea

Dense clusters of offshore wind farms and cargo ships approaching the European mainland.

🏙️

Frankfurt Skyline

The 'Mainhattan' skyscrapers and the Main River are frequently visible during the final descent.

The right side is ideal for passengers arriving in the morning who want to see the European landscape as they descend. It often provides a better view of the Frankfurt city center if the aircraft approaches from the west (Runway 07). Ensure your window is clear of frost for the sunrise over the North Sea.

Top Activities in Frankfurt
Route Information

Distance: 8,197 km (5,093 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 39 min

Departure: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)

Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)

Route Type: International

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