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YFC destination photo
YOW destination photo

YFCYOW

Our Recommendation
8.1

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.1
🪵

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.3
🌊

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.

Top Activities in Ottawa
Route Information

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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