In the early 1800s, you would have needed more than half a year to get from Pittsburgh to the West Coast. Covered wagons just weren’t very fast.

About 50 years later, it would have taken you less than a week, after America built its first transcontinental railroad. Toward the end of the 20th century, you could have made it in less than two days by car if you drove straight through.

Of course, now you can just hop an Alaska Airlines flight and get to Seattle in about five hours.

That’s good news for Russell Wilson, the star quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks and pitchman for Alaska Airlines, who probably wanted to get out of Pittsburgh quickly a couple of weeks ago after his team lost in overtime to the Steelers at Heinz Field.

Hudson Vennum was at PIT to catch the Seattle flight while it was here and passed along this shot.

Of course, once you get to the West Coast, a plane certainly gives you views you’d never get from a covered wagon.

Mohamed Mishmish, who works for United Airlines, happened to be cruising by famed Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California when he got a photo that Oregon Trail settlers could only dream of.

Not long ago, some people spent their whole lives trying to see the Pacific Ocean. Now you just need a plane ticket, no matter how far away you are.

Thanks, Hudson and Mohamed!

Our readers continue to pass along shots of unique aircraft, international airports, historical events, gorgeous views and even family vacation photos for this feature. We love them! Keep them coming—you can click here for submission guidelines.

A United Express flight cruising past Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California. (Photo submitted by Mohamed Mishmish)