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SJC destination photo
SEA destination photo

SJCSEA

Our Recommendation
9.5

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.

Right Side Highlights
9.5
💻

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

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.

Top Activities in Seattle
Route Information

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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