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YMM â YQF
Which side of the plane to sit from Fort McMurray Airport (Fort Mcmurray) to Red Deer Regional Airport (Red Deer Industrial)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the shifting Alberta landscape, featuring the winding Athabasca River at departure, the distant silhouettes of the Rocky Mountains on clear days, and the prominent lakes of central Alberta during the descent into Red Deer.
Athabasca River Path
Follow the southward progression of Alberta's longest river as it carves through the northern landscape.
Edmonton Horizon
Catch views of the Alberta capital city skyline and the sprawling urban sprawl to the west mid-flight.
Rocky Mountain Peaks
On clear days, the jagged peaks of the Canadian Rockies are visible on the far western horizon.
Sylvan Lake
A bright blue, popular resort lake located just west of the flight path during the final approach to YQF.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct sun. Keep your camera ready on clear days for the distant mountain range. As the plane begins its descent into Red Deer, look for the 'v' shape of Gull Lake and the circular Sylvan Lake to the west.
Clearwater River Confluence
Witness the meeting of the Clearwater and Athabasca rivers immediately after takeoff from Fort McMurray.
Lac La Biche
A massive, island-dotted lake that serves as a primary landmark halfway through the flight.
Beaverhill Lake
A significant wetland area and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve located east of the flight path near Edmonton.
Central Parkland
The transition from dense boreal forest to the fertile, patchwork agricultural grids of central Alberta.
Choose the left side for morning departures to enjoy the soft sunrise light over the boreal forest. This side is better for spotting the unique geography of the Clearwater River valley and the large wetlands of eastern-central Alberta. Pay attention during the first 10 minutes of flight for the best river views.
Distance: 526 km (327 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 53 min
Departure: YMM (56.653301238999994, -111.222000122)
Arrival: YQF (52.18220138549805, -113.8939971923828)
Route Type: Domestic
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