Flight time & jet lag: San Diego to Seattle

San Diego to Seattle: Route overview

This medium-haul route from San Diego (SAN) to Seattle (SEA) covers 1,692 km in approximately 2h 29m to 3h 00m. Since San Diego and Seattle share effectively the same UTC offset, jet lag is not a factor, though the travel time itself can cause fatigue. The route transitions between subtropical and temperate climate zones, so expect a significant change in daylight duration and intensity that influences your circadian adjustment strategy.

What makes the San Diego–Seattle route different

This route is unusual in that it covers a substantial distance (1,692 km) without crossing time zones. The main challenge is travel fatigue from the medium-haul flight rather than circadian disruption, making recovery straightforward — usually within 24 hours.

Arrival strategy for Seattle

Arriving in Seattle without a time zone change means your body clock is aligned with the local schedule. Focus on staying hydrated during the flight, eating a meal on arrival at a local mealtime, and getting moderate physical activity to counter travel fatigue. Most people feel fully recovered after one good night's sleep.

Circadian rhythm analysis: San Diego → Seattle

Your circadian rhythm remains synchronized with the local day-night cycle in Seattle since there is no time zone difference. The primary challenge is travel fatigue from the 2h 29m to 3h 00m flight. Maintain your normal sleep schedule and prioritize hydration.

Pre-departure preparation

With minimal time zone change, no pre-departure sleep adjustment is necessary for this San Diego to Seattle route. Focus instead on arriving well-rested: maintain your normal sleep schedule in the days before travel, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol on the flight.

Your first 72 hours in Seattle

Day 1: Arrive in Seattle and follow local time immediately. Eat meals at normal local hours and get outside in daylight. Day 2: You should feel fully adjusted. Resume normal activities. Day 3: No residual effects expected.

Recovery timeline

No jet lag recovery needed for this San Diego to Seattle route as both cities share the same time zone offset. Any fatigue should resolve after one night of good sleep.

Route Planner

Adjust departure date for DST-accurate results.

Business hours: San Diego vs Seattle

Seasonal and climate factors

Flight times between San Diego and Seattle can vary by 15–30 minutes seasonally due to shifting wind patterns along this medium-haul corridor. Seattle at 47°N experiences moderate seasonal daylight variation. Summer offers longer evenings useful for westward adjustment, while winter's earlier sunsets support eastward adjustment schedules.

How the San Diego–Seattle flight time is estimated

The 2h 29m to 3h 00m estimate for San Diego to Seattle is derived from the 1,692-km great-circle distance. Medium-haul flights balance cruise and non-cruise phases, achieving effective speeds of 780–850 km/h. An additional 30–50 minutes accounts for taxi, takeoff, climb, descent, approach, and taxi at both SAN and SEA. Actual routing through controlled airspace may add 3–8% distance beyond the great-circle path due to air traffic corridors and restricted zones along the way.

Wind patterns and flight duration

Prevailing winds along the San Diego–Seattle corridor have a moderate effect on flight time. With minimal east-west component, this route is less affected by the jet stream than transatlantic or transpacific routes.

Practical travel context

This medium-haul route connects San Diego (United States) with Seattle (United States).

Frequently asked questions: San Diego to Seattle

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