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SEA → TPE
Which side of the plane to sit from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (Taipei)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is significantly better for this Great Circle route as it follows the volcanic 'Ring of Fire' arc, providing views of the Aleutian Islands, the Kamchatka Peninsula, and the Kuril Islands.
Vancouver Island
Stunning aerial views of the rugged Canadian coastline and dense evergreen forests.
Aleutian Chain
A dramatic string of volcanic islands stretching across the North Pacific toward Russia.
Kamchatka Peninsula
View the towering, active volcanoes and desolate tundra of the Russian Far East.
Kuril Islands
A remote volcanic archipelago providing a stark contrast against the dark ocean waters.
Hokkaido Coast
The northernmost shores of Japan, often featuring snow-covered landscapes in winter months.
The right side is essential for seeing the Aleutian volcanoes and the Kamchatka Peninsula. These features appear midway through the flight. Be aware that most of the flight occurs at high latitudes where the sun remains low; use your window shade to manage glare. Check the flight map frequently as the most dramatic volcanic views occur while crossing the Bering Sea region.
Olympic Mountains
Shortly after takeoff, view the rugged, snow-capped peaks of Olympic National Park.
Pacific Expanse
Uninterrupted views of the vast deep-blue Pacific Ocean and unique atmospheric cloud formations.
Japanese Archipelago
Potential distant views of the eastern coastline of Honshu, including the Sendai region.
Mount Fuji
On clear days with a southerly approach, the iconic silhouette of Fuji can be spotted in the distance.
Taiwan North Coast
Lush green cliffs and the urban sprawl of New Taipei City as you descend into Taoyuan.
Choose the left side for the best lighting during westbound morning departures to avoid direct glare. This side is also superior for observing the arrival into Taiwan, often passing over the scenic northern coastline. Watch for the Olympic Peninsula roughly 15-20 minutes after departure.
Distance: 9,757 km (6,063 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 11 hrs 29 min
Departure: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Arrival: TPE (25.0777, 121.233002)
Route Type: International
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