Here's why:
* Whales are underwater: They spend most of their time deep in the ocean, far below the surface.
* Airplanes fly high: Commercial planes typically fly at altitudes of 30,000-40,000 feet. That's a long way down!
* Size matters: Even large whales like blue whales don't appear very big from that height.
* Water visibility: Ocean water isn't always clear, especially in areas where whales are common.
However, there are a few scenarios where you might catch a glimpse:
* Low altitude: If you're on a small plane flying low over the ocean, you might be lucky enough to spot a whale breaching the surface.
* Coastal areas: In shallow coastal waters, whales might be closer to the surface and easier to see.
* Whale watching tours: Some tour operators specialize in whale watching by plane, offering flights at lower altitudes.
Overall, while seeing a whale from an airplane isn't impossible, it's definitely a rare sight.