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YDF → YHZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Deer Lake Airport (Deer Lake) to Halifax / Stanfield International Airport (Halifax)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the rugged coastline of western Cape Breton and the vast, shimmering expanse of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, particularly during descent into Nova Scotia.
Deer Lake & Humber Valley
Excellent views of the winding Humber River and the fertile valley surrounding the departure airport.
Gulf of St. Lawrence
A vast maritime expanse where you may spot ice floes in late winter or whale activity in the summer months.
Western Cape Breton Coast
Dramatic views of the cliffs and beaches near Mabou and Judique as the plane transitions from water to land.
Northumberland Strait
On clear days, you can see across the strait toward Prince Edward Island in the distance.
Pictou & Northern NS
The industrial and natural blend of Pictou County's coastline before turning inland toward Halifax.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to capture the golden hour reflecting off the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Watch the coastline of Western Cape Breton closely; it is one of the most scenic transitions on the route. Keep an eye out for Prince Edward Island on the horizon during high-altitude cruising if visibility is high.
Grand Lake
Immediately after takeoff, witness the deep blue waters of Newfoundland's largest lake surrounded by dense boreal forest.
Long Range Mountains
Aerial views of the ancient Appalachian peaks that form the backbone of the Great Northern Peninsula.
Bras d'Or Lake
As you enter Cape Breton, view the unique 'inland sea' system with its complex network of channels and islands.
Canso Causeway
Look for the thin man-made strip of rock and road connecting Cape Breton Island to the mainland of Nova Scotia.
Shubenacadie Grand Lake
During the final approach into YHZ, the landscape is dotted with several large, scenic lakes and lush wetlands.
Sit on the left for morning flights to enjoy the soft sunrise light hitting the Long Range Mountains. This side is also better for spotting the unique geography of the Bras d'Or Lake system. In winter, look for the contrast of frozen lake surfaces against the evergreen forests.
Distance: 668 km (415 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min
Departure: YDF (49.21080017089844, -57.39139938354492)
Arrival: YHZ (44.880798339799995, -63.508598327600005)
Route Type: Domestic
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