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IAD destination photo
YUL destination photo

IADYUL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the Appalachian chain, the Green Mountains of Vermont, and most importantly, usually provides a clear panoramic view of downtown Montreal and Mount Royal during the final approach into YUL.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌲

Catskill Mountains

View the rolling, forested plateaus of southeastern New York to the east of the flight path.

🏞️

Hudson Valley

Glimpses of the historic river valley that served as the primary corridor for early North American trade.

🏔️

Green Mountains

The long, verdant spine of Vermont visible across the border from New York.

🚢

St. Lawrence River

The massive waterway appearing as you cross into Quebec, often filled with cargo ships.

🏙️

Montreal Skyline

The iconic view of Downtown Montreal, Mount Royal, and the Olympic Stadium on standard southern approaches.

The right side is the 'money' side for Montreal photography. Morning flights offer the best lighting on the Green Mountains and the city skyline. Ensure your window is clear, as the descent over the St. Lawrence provides a perfect angle for capturing the Jacques Cartier Bridge.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
💧

Potomac River

Aerial views of the winding river separating Virginia and Maryland shortly after takeoff.

🛤️

Susquehanna River

Crossing the wide, shallow river as it cuts through the ridges of central Pennsylvania.

⛰️

Adirondack High Peaks

Looking west toward the rugged summits of New York's largest wilderness area.

🚤

Lake Champlain West

A close-up view of the New York shoreline and the narrow channels of the northern lake.

🌊

Lake Saint-Louis

The widening of the St. Lawrence River just before the aircraft turns for final approach.

Sit on the left for sunset views on evening flights. This side is also excellent during the winter months to see the frozen patterns on the Susquehanna and smaller lakes in the Adirondacks. If landing toward the east, you may see the West Island suburbs in detail.

Top Activities in Montreal
Route Information

Distance: 787 km (489 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min

Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Arrival: YUL (45.4706001282, -73.7407989502)

Route Type: International

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