how long is a flight from hawaii to seattle

How Long is a Flight from Hawaii to Seattle?

The flight duration from Hawaii to Seattle typically ranges from 5.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on the specific departure and arrival airports, as well as wind conditions. This applies for direct flights which are the most common. However, flights with layovers can significantly extend the travel time.

Let’s break down the factors influencing the flight time and what you can expect when traveling between these two destinations.

Factors Influencing Flight Time

Several factors contribute to the actual flight time between Hawaii and Seattle. These include:

Departure and Arrival Airports

Hawaii has several airports, including Honolulu (HNL) on Oahu, Kahului (OGG) on Maui, Kona (KOA) on the Big Island, and Lihue (LIH) on Kauai. Seattle has one primary airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). The specific airports used will slightly alter the flight distance and therefore the flight duration.

Wind Conditions

Winds play a crucial role in air travel. Flights traveling with the jet stream (tailwinds) generally experience shorter flight times, while those flying against it (headwinds) can take longer. This is particularly noticeable on long-haul flights like those from Hawaii to Seattle.

Direct vs. Connecting Flights

Direct flights, as the name suggests, fly directly from Hawaii to Seattle without any stops. These are the quickest option. Connecting flights, however, will involve at least one layover, often in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Portland. Adding a layover significantly increases your total travel time, potentially adding several hours.

Aircraft Type

Different airplanes have different cruising speeds. Wide-body aircraft usually cruise faster than smaller, regional jets, although this is less relevant for the Hawaii-Seattle route as larger aircraft are typically used.

For more detailed information about flight distances, you can refer to flight length information on Wikipedia.

What to Expect

For a direct flight from Honolulu (HNL) to Seattle (SEA), you can anticipate a flight time of approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes to 6 hours and 30 minutes. Flights from other Hawaiian islands may vary slightly. Always check with your airline for the most accurate flight time for your specific itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I arrive at the airport for a flight from Hawaii to Seattle?

It’s generally recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure time for international flights.

What is the time difference between Hawaii and Seattle?

Hawaii is 3 hours behind Seattle during standard time and 2 hours behind during daylight saving time.

What airlines fly direct from Hawaii to Seattle?

Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Delta Air Lines are among the airlines that offer direct flights from Hawaii to Seattle.

Are there any red-eye flights from Hawaii to Seattle?

Yes, some flights depart from Hawaii in the late evening and arrive in Seattle early in the morning.

What is the average cost of a flight from Hawaii to Seattle?

The cost varies depending on the time of year, airline, and how far in advance you book. Prices can range from $300 to $800 or more for a round-trip ticket.

Summary

A direct flight from Hawaii to Seattle typically takes between 5.5 and 6.5 hours. Be sure to factor in the potential for delays due to wind conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. When booking your flight, consider whether a direct or connecting flight best suits your travel needs and budget.