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YFC → YOW
Which side of the plane to sit from Fredericton Airport (Fredericton) to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a more dramatic perspective of the St. Lawrence River valley and the rolling Gatineau Hills as you approach the capital.
New Brunswick Highlands
Rugged, forested terrain and deep valleys characteristic of the province's interior.
St. Lawrence River
A massive, silver ribbon of water that becomes prominent as the flight enters Quebec airspace.
Appalachian Ridges
The northernmost tail of the Appalachian mountain range stretching toward the Gaspé Peninsula.
Gatineau Park
Lush green hills and expansive forests located just north of the Ottawa city center.
Ottawa River
The natural border between Ontario and Quebec, offering a stunning backdrop for the final approach.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. The approach into Ottawa often involves a turn that provides an excellent view of the Gatineau Hills and the Ottawa River. If the flight path follows the St. Lawrence, you'll see the shipping lanes and small islands clearly.
St. John River
Visible immediately after takeoff, winding through the historic landscape of Fredericton.
North Maine Woods
Vast stretches of uninhabited wilderness and timberlands in the northern United States.
Mount Katahdin
On clear days, the highest peak in Maine is visible on the distant horizon.
Eastern Townships
The picturesque rolling hills and quaint villages of southeastern Quebec.
Rideau Canal
The historic waterway appearing just before landing at Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier.
Sit on the left for the best morning light during westbound flights. Keep an eye out for the shimmering lakes of the Eastern Townships during the mid-flight segment. In autumn, this side offers a spectacular view of the changing foliage in the Maine and Quebec forests.
Distance: 713 km (443 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 11 min
Departure: YFC (45.86890029907226, -66.53720092773439)
Arrival: YOW (45.3224983215332, -75.66919708251953)
Route Type: Domestic
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