Loading map...

YKU destination photo
YVO destination photo

YKU โ†’ YVO

Which side of the plane to sit from Chisasibi Airport (Chisasibi) to Val-d'Or Airport (Val D'or)?

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior perspective of the James Bay coastline and the dramatic convergence of northern rivers with the sea, followed by views of major mining operations near Val-d'Or.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
๐ŸŒŠ

James Bay Coastline

Continuous views of the saltwater coast, where the subarctic waters meet the rugged shoreline of Quebec.

๐Ÿ๏ธ

Coastal Archipelagos

Dozens of small, pristine islands dotting the shoreline near Wemindji and Eastmain.

๐Ÿฆข

Rupert Bay Delta

A vast, complex wetland system where the Rupert and Nottaway rivers empty into the sea.

๐Ÿšœ

Abitibi Mining Belt

As you descend into Val-d'Or, look for the massive excavations and tailings of gold and base metal mines.

โ„๏ธ

Pack Ice Formations

From November to June, the right side offers views of shifting ice floes and pressure ridges on the bay.

This is the 'sunset side' for evening flights, offering golden reflections off James Bay. Keep your camera ready during the first 20 minutes for coastal shots and the last 10 minutes for the deep pits of the regional mines. Use a high shutter speed to capture the intricate river deltas.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
๐ŸŒŠ

La Grande-1 Dam

Visible shortly after takeoff, this massive hydroelectric spillway is part of the world-renowned James Bay Project.

๐ŸŒฒ

Sakami Lake

A sprawling, multi-armed reservoir that showcases the sheer scale of the Canadian Shield's water systems.

๐Ÿ›ถ

Broadback River

A powerful heritage river flowing through dense spruce forests and ancient Cree traditional territories.

๐Ÿ“

Lake Parent

A long, linear lake that signals the final approach into the Abitibi-Tรฉmiscamingue region.

๐Ÿ˜๏ธ

Radisson Views

Occasional distant views of the northernmost non-indigenous town in Quebec, nestled in the taiga.

Sit on the left for the best view of the La Grande River's industrial scale. During winter flights, this side provides excellent views of the 'frost-shattered' patterns on the frozen lakes of the boreal forest. Aim for a window seat behind the wing to keep the ground clearly visible.

Top Activities in Val D'or
Route Information

Distance: 645 km (401 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min

Departure: YKU (53.80559921264648, -78.91690063476562)

Arrival: YVO (48.0532989502, -77.7827987671)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.