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SEA β KOA
Which side of the plane to sit from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle) to Ellison Onizuka Kona International At Keahole Airport (Kona)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers iconic views of Mount Rainier during takeoff and a spectacular panorama of the Hawaiian volcano peaks during arrival.
Search flights from SEA to KOA
Mount Rainier
The massive snow-capped volcano is often visible shortly after takeoff to the south.
HaleakalΔ
On clear days, the summit of Maui's dormant volcano appears above the clouds on descent.
Mauna Kea
As you approach the Big Island, view the highest point in Hawaii with its world-class observatories.
Puget Sound
Aerial views of the intricate waterways and islands around the Seattle metropolitan area.
Mauna Loa
The world's largest active volcano dominates the landscape as you enter the Kona region.
Sit on the left for the best chance of seeing Mt. Rainier on departure and the most direct views of the Hawaiian island chain (Maui and the Big Island's peaks) during the arrival phase. Mid-morning flights offer the best lighting for the volcanoes. Watch for the transition from deep blue ocean to turquoise reefs about 20 minutes before landing.
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Get eSIMs for United StatesOlympic Mountains
Rugged, glaciated peaks of the Olympic Peninsula visible shortly after departure.
Olympic National Forest
Dense evergreen forests spanning from the mountains to the rugged Washington coast.
Pacific Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue Pacific Ocean for several hours of the journey.
Kohala Coast
Dramatic views of the northern coastline of the Big Island including secluded valleys.
Lava Fields
Striking black lava flows from historic eruptions visible as the plane descends into KOA.
Choose the right side if you prefer views of the Olympic Mountains upon departure from Seattle. This side is also superior for sunset views on late afternoon or evening flights heading west-southwest. During landing at KOA, the right side provides an excellent perspective of the stark contrast between the black basaltic lava fields and the resort developments along the shore.
Book Hotels in KonaDistance: 4,327 km (2,689 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 5 min
Departure: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Arrival: KOA (19.738783, -156.045603)
Route Type: Domestic
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