Flight time & jet lag: Seattle to Los Angeles

Seattle to Los Angeles: Route overview

This medium-haul route from Seattle (SEA) to Los Angeles (LAX) covers 1,537 km in approximately 2h 18m to 2h 48m. Since Seattle and Los Angeles share effectively the same UTC offset, jet lag is not a factor, though the travel time itself can cause fatigue. The route transitions between temperate and subtropical climate zones, so expect a significant change in daylight duration and intensity that influences your circadian adjustment strategy.

What makes the Seattle–Los Angeles route different

This route is unusual in that it covers a substantial distance (1,537 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 Los Angeles

Arriving in Los Angeles 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: Seattle → Los Angeles

Your circadian rhythm remains synchronized with the local day-night cycle in Los Angeles since there is no time zone difference. The primary challenge is travel fatigue from the 2h 18m to 2h 48m 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 Seattle to Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles

Day 1: Arrive in Los Angeles 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 Seattle to Los Angeles 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: Seattle vs Los Angeles

Seasonal and climate factors

Flight times between Seattle and Los Angeles can vary by 15–30 minutes seasonally due to shifting wind patterns along this medium-haul corridor. Los Angeles at 34°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 Seattle–Los Angeles flight time is estimated

The 2h 18m to 2h 48m estimate for Seattle to Los Angeles is derived from the 1,537-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 SEA and LAX. 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 Seattle–Los Angeles 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 Seattle (United States) with Los Angeles (United States).

Frequently asked questions: Seattle to Los Angeles

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