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KOA → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Ellison Onizuka Kona International At Keahole Airport (Kona) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer similar views of the Pacific Ocean for most of the journey, the right side provides a superior approach into Vancouver, featuring the Olympic Mountains and the iconic city skyline.
Olympic Mountains
Snow-capped peaks of Washington State visible to the south as you cross the border into Canadian airspace.
Victoria BC
Aerial perspective of the provincial capital and the southern tip of Vancouver Island.
Vancouver Skyline
Breathtaking views of the glass towers, Stanley Park, and the Lions Gate Bridge during the final approach.
North Shore Mountains
The dramatic wall of mountains including Grouse and Cypress that serves as Vancouver's backdrop.
Fraser River Delta
The intricate silt patterns and agricultural lands of Richmond just moments before touchdown.
The right side is the 'money side' for the arrival into YVR. If the plane lands towards the west (the most common pattern), you will get a panoramic view of the city and the mountains. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing. Seasonal note: in winter, the sunset view over the Pacific from this side is spectacular.
Kohala Coast
Dramatic volcanic cliffs and hidden valleys along the northern edge of the Big Island immediately after takeoff.
Haleakala Crater
Clear views of Maui's massive shield volcano rising above the clouds shortly after departure.
Vancouver Island West Coast
Rugged, forested coastlines and deep fjords of the Pacific Rim National Park during the initial descent.
Gulf Islands
A mosaic of emerald islands scattered throughout the Salish Sea as the plane nears the mainland.
Strait of Georgia
Glittering blue waters and marine traffic including ferries and cargo ships entering the Port of Vancouver.
Sit on the left for the best farewell views of the Hawaiian island chain, specifically Maui and Molokai. During arrival, this side is better for spotting the wilder, uninhabited parts of the BC coastline. Choose an early morning departure to see the sunrise over the ocean from this side.
Distance: 4,385 km (2,725 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 10 min
Departure: KOA (19.738783, -156.045603)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: International
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