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YOW â FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is the superior choice for this transatlantic journey because it offers the potential for stunning views of the Greenland ice cap and the best chance to witness the Aurora Borealis during the overnight portion of the flight.
Quebec Wilderness
Stunning views of the dense boreal forests and thousands of pristine lakes in Northern Quebec shortly after takeoff.
Greenland Ice Sheet
On northerly tracks, you can see the vast, rugged white expanse of the world's largest ice sheet and dramatic coastal fjords.
Aurora Borealis
The left side faces north, providing the perfect vantage point to see the Northern Lights during winter night flights.
Scottish Highlands
As you reach Europe, you may pass over the rugged mountains and lochs of Northern Scotland or the Outer Hebrides.
Low Countries
Clear views of the intricate canal systems and urban sprawl of the Netherlands and Belgium before entering German airspace.
Choose the left side for overnight flights, especially between September and March, to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis. Use a flight tracker to see if your route passes over Southern Greenland; if it does, stay awake for the 3-4 hour mark into the flight for incredible glacial views. Keep your window shade down during the middle of the flight to help others sleep, but peek out during the early hours of European dawn.
St. Lawrence River
Aerial views of the massive St. Lawrence Seaway and the rugged coastline of Newfoundland as you leave North America.
Emerald Isle
If the flight takes a southern track, you will see the lush, green patchwork fields of Southern Ireland and the Irish Sea.
London Sights
Frequent flight paths pass just south of London, offering glimpses of the Thames and the sprawling metropolitan area.
English Channel
Look down for the world's busiest shipping lanes and, on clear days, the white cliffs of Dover or the French coast.
Rhine River Valley
On the final approach to Frankfurt, enjoy views of the winding Rhine River, historic castles, and sprawling vineyards.
The right side is excellent for catching the sunset over the Atlantic if you depart Ottawa in the late afternoon. During the descent into Frankfurt, keep an eye out for the city's impressive 'Mainhattan' skyline, which is often visible on the right when landing from the west. This side also stays darker longer during the dawn transition, which can be better for resting.
Distance: 5,985 km (3,719 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 2 min
Departure: YOW (45.3224983215332, -75.66919708251953)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
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