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YKA → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Kamloops Airport (Kamloops) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
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.
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.
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.
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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