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SJC → SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled parade of the Cascade Range's most iconic volcanic peaks, including Mt. Shasta, Mt. Hood, and an incredible close-up of Mt. Rainier during the descent.
Silicon Valley
Spot the Apple Park 'spaceship' campus and the tech hubs of Santa Clara and San Jose right after takeoff.
Mt. Shasta
The massive, snow-covered stratovolcano dominates the landscape of Northern California at cruise altitude.
Mt. Hood
Oregon's highest peak stands out clearly as you pass the Portland area, often appearing quite close.
Mt. St. Helens
Look for the distinct horseshoe-shaped crater left by the 1980 eruption, located just north of the Columbia River.
Mt. Rainier
The massive, glaciated peak looms incredibly large and detailed as the flight begins its final descent into SEA.
This is the premier 'Volcano Route.' Book a morning flight to have the sun illuminate the eastern faces of the mountains while keeping the glare out of your window. Keep your camera ready about 20-30 minutes before landing for the most spectacular views of Mt. Rainier's glaciers.
San Francisco Bay
Aerial views of the Peninsula and the southern reaches of the Bay immediately after departure from SJC.
Pacific Coastline
Distal views of the rugged Northern California and Oregon coastlines where the land meets the deep blue Pacific.
Olympic Mountains
The dramatic, jagged peaks of Olympic National Park are visible to the west during the arrival phase into Washington.
Puget Sound
A maze of islands, ferries, and deep blue waterways as the plane maneuvers for its final approach into Seattle.
The left side is superior for sunset enthusiasts on evening flights. On a clear day, look for the Farallon Islands off the coast of San Francisco shortly after takeoff. During the descent, if the wind is from the south, you might catch a glimpse of the Seattle skyline and the Space Needle.
Distance: 1,122 km (697 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min
Departure: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: Domestic
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