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SJO → YYZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose) to Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Toronto)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring the stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean, a traverse of the Cuban coastline, a comprehensive view of the Florida peninsula including Miami, and the iconic Niagara Falls during the final approach into Toronto.
Costa Rican Caribbean Coast
Aerial views of the Tortuguero canals and the dense tropical rainforest meeting the Caribbean Sea.
Cuban Archipelago
A long transit over or near the western tip of Cuba, showing white sand beaches and the vibrant blue reefs of the keys.
The Florida Keys and Miami
Spectacular views of the overseas highway, the Everglades, and the high-rise skyline of Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
East Coast Megalopolis
Distant views of major US Atlantic cities and the complex estuaries of the Chesapeake and Delaware Bays.
Niagara Falls
On the standard arrival route into YYZ from the south, this side provides a world-class view of the Horseshoe and American Falls.
This is the 'money side' for this route. Sit here for the best chance to see Niagara Falls—usually visible about 15-20 minutes before landing. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the Florida and Caribbean segments. Use a polarising filter for photos to cut through the haze and enhance the turquoise water colors.
Poás and Arenal Volcanoes
Shortly after takeoff from SJO, enjoy views of the volcanic peaks lining the Cordillera Central of Costa Rica.
Lake Nicaragua
Witness the massive expanse of Cocibolca, including the twin volcanic peaks of Ometepe Island rising from the water.
Yucatán Peninsula
Depending on the airway, catch the eastern edge of Mexico near Cozumel and the lush jungle canopy of Quintana Roo.
The American Heartland
Vast agricultural patterns across the Midwest and the rolling hills of the Appalachian foothills in Kentucky and Ohio.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Final descent often follows the northern shore of Lake Erie, showing the marinas and parks of Southern Ontario.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun over the Gulf. Keep your camera ready within the first 20 minutes for the best volcano shots. This side is also excellent for seeing the intricate 'patchwork quilt' of US farmland during mid-flight.
Distance: 3,771 km (2,343 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 26 min
Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Arrival: YYZ (43.6772003174, -79.63059997559999)
Route Type: International
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