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YLW → SEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Kelowna International Airport (Kelowna) to Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of the rugged North Cascades, including the massive Mount Baker, followed by a panoramic entry into the Puget Sound with views of the Olympic Mountains and the Seattle skyline.
Mount Baker
The most heavily glaciated peak in the Cascades, appearing prominently after crossing the international border.
North Cascades National Park
Known as the American Alps, featuring jagged granite spires and deep glacial valleys.
Puget Sound
The complex network of marine waterways and islands that define the Pacific Northwest coast.
Olympic Mountains
Visible across the Sound to the west, often appearing as a silhouette against the horizon.
Seattle Skyline
Depending on the wind direction, the final approach often yields views of the Space Needle and downtown waterfront.
The right side is superior for geological variety. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the North Cascades. If the plane lands from the north, you'll get a classic view of the Seattle skyline and the shipping ports. In winter, keep your camera ready for the snow-covered Picket Range.
Okanagan Valley
Aerial views of the deep blue Okanagan Lake and the rolling vineyards of the valley during the initial climb.
Glacier Peak
One of the most active and remote stratovolcanoes in the Washington Cascades, visible mid-flight.
Mount Rainier
As you descend into Seattle, the massive 14,411-foot peak dominates the horizon to the south.
Snoqualmie National Forest
A vast expanse of dense evergreen forests and high-altitude alpine lakes.
Choose the left side if you want the most direct view of Mount Rainier during the descent. For afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, so polarized sunglasses or a closed window shade might be necessary during the first half of the trip to avoid glare.
Distance: 352 km (219 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: YLW (49.9561004639, -119.377998352)
Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Route Type: International
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