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YHZ → YOW
Which side of the plane to sit from Halifax / Stanfield International Airport (Halifax) to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the dramatic Bay of Fundy tides and a better angle of the Ottawa River during the final approach into the capital.
Halifax Harbour
A stunning view of the Bedford Basin and downtown Halifax immediately after takeoff.
Bay of Fundy
Vast views of the Minas Basin, known for having the highest tides in the world.
Appalachian Ridges
The rolling green peaks of the northern Appalachian range stretching through New Brunswick.
Eastern Townships
The picturesque patchwork of farms and small towns in southern Quebec.
Richelieu River
A clear view of this historic waterway as the flight crosses from Quebec into Ontario.
Choose a window seat behind the wing to avoid engine glare. For afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses or keep the shade partially down. This side provides the best view of the Ottawa city center during the standard descent path from the east.
Nova Scotia Lakes
The dense cluster of lakes and forests northeast of Halifax during the initial climb.
Northumberland Strait
A distant view of the waters separating the mainland from Prince Edward Island.
Miramichi River
The winding curves of one of Canada's most famous salmon-fishing rivers.
St. Lawrence River
A spectacular crossing of the mighty St. Lawrence as the plane enters the final flight phase.
Gatineau Hills
The lush, forested hills of Gatineau Park visible just across the river from Ottawa.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. Look out for the Confederation Bridge in the far distance if visibility is exceptionally clear. During the winter, the frozen St. Lawrence River provides a unique geometric landscape of ice floes.
Distance: 955 km (593 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min
Departure: YHZ (44.880798339799995, -63.508598327600005)
Arrival: YOW (45.3224983215332, -75.66919708251953)
Route Type: Domestic
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