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TUS → SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Tucson International Airport (Tucson) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is the clear winner for this route, offering a front-row seat to the 'Ring of Fire' volcanic peaks including Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, and an incredibly close pass by the massive Mt. Rainier during the descent into Seattle.
Grand Canyon
The northern reaches of the canyon and the Kaibab Plateau are often visible in the distance during the first hour.
Cascade Volcanoes
A sequential parade of peaks including Mount Bachelor, Three Sisters, and the perfectly pointed Mount Jefferson.
Mount Hood
Oregon's highest peak stands out with its prominent, snow-capped triangular silhouette.
Mount St. Helens
An unmistakable view of the massive horseshoe-shaped crater formed by the 1980 eruption.
Mount Rainier
The crown jewel of the flight; the plane passes very close to this massive glacier-covered volcano during descent.
Seattle Skyline
If landing from the north, you will get an iconic view of the Space Needle, downtown, and Elliott Bay.
The Right Side is essential for mountain lovers. Sit slightly behind the wing to ensure your view of Mt. Rainier isn't obstructed. Morning flights offer spectacular 'alpenglow' lighting on the eastern faces of the Cascades. Keep your camera ready during the final 30 minutes of the flight.
Sonoran Desert
Vast expanses of the Arizona desert featuring saguaro forests and rugged mountain ranges shortly after takeoff.
Las Vegas Strip
A view of the desert oasis and its famous resort skyline as you fly north-northwest through Nevada.
Eastern Sierras
The jagged peaks of the Sierra Nevada range are visible to the west across the high desert floor.
Crater Lake
The strikingly deep blue water of the caldera is often visible in southern Oregon depending on the airway.
Willamette Valley
The lush, green agricultural heart of Oregon provides a sharp contrast to the high deserts of the south.
Puget Sound
On the final approach, enjoy views of the winding waterways, islands, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to keep the sun behind you, which minimizes glare and enhances colors for photography. This side also offers superior views of the Olympic Peninsula if the plane circles west for a southern landing at SEA.
Distance: 1,957 km (1,216 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 37 min
Departure: TUS (32.116100311279304, -110.94100189208984)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: Domestic
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