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SEA → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a spectacular vantage point of the Salish Sea's intricate archipelago and the rugged peaks of the Olympic Mountains.
Olympic Mountains
Dramatic views of the snow-capped peaks within Olympic National Park across the water.
Puget Sound
Aerial perspective of the deep blue waterways, ferry routes, and bustling shipping lanes.
San Juan Islands
A stunning mosaic of forested islands including Lopez, Orcas, and San Juan Island.
Gulf Islands
The Canadian portion of the archipelago, featuring Galiano and Salt Spring Islands.
Victoria and Vancouver Island
Distances views of British Columbia's capital and the southern tip of Vancouver Island.
Choose the left side for sunset flights to watch the sun dip behind the Olympic Mountains. This side is also superior for spotting the intricate coastline and island formations during the descent into Vancouver. On clear days, you can easily spot Orcas and San Juan Islands.
Seattle Skyline
Immediate views of downtown Seattle, the Space Needle, and Lake Union during initial climb.
Mount Baker
The massive, ice-clad volcano dominates the eastern horizon throughout the flight.
North Cascades
The 'American Alps' offer a continuous ridge of jagged, glaciated peaks to the east.
Fraser Valley
The lush agricultural heartland of British Columbia visible just before landing.
North Shore Mountains
The steep, forested mountains that provide the iconic backdrop to the city of Vancouver.
Select the right side for morning flights to see the sunrise over the Cascade Range. Mount Baker is the primary landmark here; it appears exceptionally close as you pass Bellingham. During the approach to YVR, you will get a great view of the Fraser River delta's silt-rich waters entering the strait.
Distance: 205 km (127 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 21 min
Departure: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: International
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