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QBC → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Bella Coola Airport (Bella Coola) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of the Pacific coastline, featuring deep glacial fjords, the winding Burke Channel, and the picturesque islands of the Salish Sea.
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North Bentinck Arm
Dramatic departure views of the fjord waters immediately after taking off from Bella Coola.
Burke Channel
A stunning, deep-water channel that winds through the steep coastal mountains toward the open sea.
The Sunshine Coast
Follow the rugged coastline past remote inlets like Jervis and Sechelt as you head south.
Howe Sound
North America's southernmost fjord, featuring a beautiful cluster of islands including Bowen and Gambier.
Strait of Georgia
Expansive views across the Salish Sea with the mountains of Vancouver Island visible on the horizon.
Fraser River Delta
Vibrant patterns of silt and water where the Fraser River meets the sea just before touchdown at YVR.
The right side is unbeatable for afternoon flights when the sun reflects off the coastal waters and fjords. For the best experience, try to sit in front of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Look for BC Ferries crossing the Strait of Georgia as you approach Vancouver—they look like tiny white specks on the blue water.
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Mount Waddington Range
Catch glimpses of the highest peak in British Columbia and its surrounding jagged granite spires.
Homathko Icefield
Witness one of the largest ice expanses in the Coast Mountains, visible shortly after departure.
Great Bear Rainforest
Look down upon the dense, ancient temperate rainforest that blankets the interior valleys.
Mount Garibaldi
A prominent volcanic peak that marks the final stretch of the journey through the Sea-to-Sky region.
Vancouver Skyline
As the plane turns for its final approach, you get a sprawling view of North Vancouver and the downtown core.
Sit on the left for morning flights to have the sun behind you, illuminating the mountain peaks. This side is superior for geological enthusiasts interested in glacial erosion and high-altitude alpine terrain. Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes after takeoff for the best icefield shots.
Get eSIMs for Canada
Get eSIMs for CanadaDistance: 428 km (266 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 43 min
Departure: QBC (52.387501, -126.596001)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: Domestic
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