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SEA → TUS
Which side of the plane to sit from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle) to Tucson International Airport (Tucson)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled parade of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic volcanic peaks, followed by potential views of the Grand Canyon and the stunning red rocks of northern Arizona on the descent into Tucson.
Mount Rainier
Shortly after takeoff, witness the massive, glacier-clad summit of Rainier looming close to the flight path.
Cascade Volcanoes
A sequential view of Mount Adams, Mount Saint Helens, and the perfectly symmetrical Mount Hood near Portland.
Crater Lake
The strikingly deep blue water of the caldera is often visible while cruising over Southern Oregon.
Grand Canyon
As the plane enters Arizona, the vast, carved landscape of the Grand Canyon's North Rim often appears.
Sedona Red Rocks
During the descent, look for the vibrant crimson formations and deep canyons of the Mogollon Rim area.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing to prevent engine heat distortion from ruining photos of the volcanoes. Morning flights are ideal for this side, as the sun will illuminate the eastern faces of the mountains, providing excellent depth and color for photography. Keep your camera ready within the first 20 minutes of departure.
Puget Sound
Glimpse the intricate waterways, islands, and the Olympic Mountains to the far west during departure.
Mount Shasta
The dominant, isolated peak of Shasta provides a spectacular landmark as you cross into California.
Mojave Desert
Vast stretches of arid basins, dry lake beds, and rugged desert mountains characterize the mid-flight view.
Hoover Dam & Lake Mead
Depending on the specific ATC routing, you may see the Colorado River and the massive reservoir.
Phoenix Metro
As you begin the final approach to Tucson, the sprawling urban layout of Phoenix is visible to the west.
The right side is perfect for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Pacific Coast Range. This side offers better views of Mount Shasta, which is the singular highlight of Northern California. Watch for the stark transition from the green forests of Oregon to the golden browns of the Mojave Desert.
Distance: 1,957 km (1,216 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 37 min
Departure: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Arrival: TUS (32.116100311279304, -110.94100189208984)
Route Type: Domestic
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