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YKA destination photo
YVR destination photo

YKAYVR

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior panoramic transition from the dry Thompson plateau to the lush North Shore mountains, culminating in an iconic view of the Vancouver skyline and Stanley Park during the approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
💧

Thompson River

The winding river path leading out of Kamloops and into the narrow canyons to the west.

🌲

Golden Ears Provincial Park

Sharp, twin-peaked mountains that dominate the horizon as you enter the Lower Mainland.

🏔️

North Shore Mountains

Close-range views of 'The Lions' peaks and the coastal mountain range descending into the sea.

🏙️

Vancouver Skyline

A stunning aerial view of the glass towers of downtown, the Burrard Inlet, and Stanley Park.

🚢

English Bay

Dozens of anchored cargo ships waiting in the harbor against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

✈️

YVR Approach

Views of the Vancouver International Airport runways and the intricate Fraser River delta.

The right side is the 'money side' for Vancouver arrivals. Choose this side for sunset flights to witness the city lights reflecting off the Pacific Ocean. During the descent, the pilot often performs a turn over the Salish Sea, providing a perfect photo opportunity of the University of British Columbia (UBC) and the downtown core.

Left Side Highlights
7.9
🏜️

Nicola Valley

Expansive views of the high-altitude ranch lands and rolling bunchgrass hills of the BC interior.

🏔️

Coquihalla Pass

Dramatic granite spires and rugged ridges of the Cascade Mountains as you cross the mountain barrier.

🗻

Mount Baker

On clear days, the massive, snow-covered volcanic peak in Washington State is visible to the south.

🚜

Fraser Valley Farmland

A patchwork quilt of green and gold agricultural fields stretching toward the US border.

🌊

Boundary Bay

The sparkling waters of the Salish Sea and the distinct peninsula of Point Roberts during final descent.

Sit on the left side during morning flights for better illumination of the southern mountain ranges without the direct sun glare. Watch for the 'Great Bear Snowshed' on the Coquihalla Highway below. This side is also excellent for spotting the majestic Mount Baker peaking above the horizon on the horizon line.

Top Activities in Vancouver
Route Information

Distance: 258 km (160 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 26 min

Departure: YKA (50.7022018433, -120.444000244)

Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)

Route Type: Domestic

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