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SEA → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic landscapes of the Alaskan coast and the spectacular volcanic peaks of the Kamchatka Peninsula.
Canadian Rockies
Early views of the snow-capped peaks of British Columbia as the flight heads northwest.
Alaskan Panhandle
Stunning vistas of the Mendenhall Glacier and the intricate fjords of Southeast Alaska.
Kamchatka Volcanoes
A highlight of the route, featuring the towering, active volcanic cones of the Russian Far East.
Sea of Okhotsk
Views of the vast sea and occasional ice floes depending on the season and northern latitude.
Northeast China Plain
The agricultural heartland of Heilongjiang and Jilin provinces before arriving in Beijing.
Sit on the right for the best chance to see the volcanic activity in Kamchatka, which occurs roughly 7 to 8 hours into the flight. Because you are flying near the Arctic Circle, the light can be very soft and beautiful for photography. Try to book a seat ahead of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Alaskan coastline.
Olympic Peninsula
Aerial views of the lush, temperate rainforests and rugged coastline of Washington State shortly after takeoff.
North Pacific Expanse
Deep blue ocean vistas as the flight moves away from the North American continent toward the Aleutians.
Sikhote-Alin Mountains
The forested mountain range of the Russian Far East, known for its biodiversity and steep terrain.
Beijing Outskirts
The sprawling urban development and industrial hubs surrounding the capital city during the final descent.
The left side is prone to significant glare when flying westbound during the day as the sun remains to the south. Keep your window shade partially closed during mid-flight to avoid eye strain. On the final approach into PEK, you may catch glimpses of the Miyun Reservoir if the flight path approaches from the northeast.
Distance: 8,679 km (5,393 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 13 min
Departure: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: International
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