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SNA → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides an unparalleled sequence of snow-capped volcanic peaks throughout the flight, including the massive Mount Rainier and Mount Shasta.
Mount Shasta
The towering, snow-clad stratovolcano that dominates the landscape in Northern California.
Cascade Volcanoes
A succession of dramatic peaks including Mount Hood and the distinct crater of Mount St. Helens.
Mount Rainier
Washington's highest peak appears incredibly massive as the flight path passes to its west.
Mount Baker
The final major peak of the Cascades before crossing the international border into Canada.
Greater Vancouver
A panoramic view of the city, the Fraser River delta, and the North Shore Mountains upon descent.
The right side is the 'volcano side.' Morning flights offer the most flattering lighting on the eastern faces of the mountains. Keep your camera ready between Seattle and the border for the most dramatic views of Mount Rainier and Mount Baker. Sit forward of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block these massive peaks.
Pacific Coastline
Striking views of the rugged California and Oregon coastlines meeting the deep blue Pacific.
San Francisco Bay
Aerial perspective of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Area if the flight follows a coastal corridor.
Olympic Peninsula
The dense, emerald-green wilderness and rugged peaks of Olympic National Park in Washington.
Vancouver Island
Vistas of the southern tip of the island and the city of Victoria across the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Choose the left side for spectacular sunsets over the Pacific Ocean on evening flights. During the final approach into YVR, you will often get a clear view of the Gulf Islands and the intricate, turquoise waterways of the Salish Sea.
Distance: 1,780 km (1,106 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 22 min
Departure: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: International
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