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YQB → YGR
Which side of the plane to sit from Quebec Jean Lesage International Airport (Quebec) to Îles-de-la-Madeleine Airport (Iles De La Madeleine)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a spectacular vantage point of the rugged Laurentian mountains, the mouth of the Saguenay Fjord, and the primary sweeping view of the Magdalen Islands archipelago upon descent.
Quebec City & Île d'Orléans
Immediately after takeoff, enjoy a bird's-eye view of the historic Old Quebec skyline and the lush farmlands of Île d'Orléans.
Charlevoix Cratre
Fly over the dramatic landscape of the Charlevoix region, known for its mountainous terrain formed by a prehistoric meteor impact.
Saguenay-St. Lawrence Park
Look for the deep blue confluence of the Saguenay River and the St. Lawrence, a prime area for whale sightings from above.
North Shore Coastline
Follow the wild and rocky Côte-Nord, featuring isolated lighthouses and the vast boreal forest stretching into the horizon.
Archipelago Approach
As the plane descends, the left side typically offers a stunning panoramic view of the red sandstone cliffs and thin sand dunes connecting the islands.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, which enhances the colors of the St. Lawrence estuary and prevents glare. Pay close attention about 30 minutes into the flight for the Saguenay Fjord entrance. During the final descent into YGR, this side usually sees the iconic red cliffs of Havre-aux-Maisons island first.
Bas-Saint-Laurent
View the picturesque 'ribbon farms' and historic coastal villages that line the south shore of the St. Lawrence River.
Bic National Park
Spot the unique coastal formations and jagged ridges that make up this beautiful maritime park near Rimouski.
Chic-Choc Mountains
The high peaks of the Appalachian range in the Gaspé Peninsula are visible inland, often capped with snow late into the spring.
Forillon & Gaspé Coast
The southern side of the Gulf of St. Lawrence reveals the dramatic end of the Appalachian chain as it dips into the sea.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Gaspé Peninsula. If the flight path takes a more southerly route across the Gulf, you might spot the distant silhouette of Percé Rock. Keep your camera ready as you cross the coastline from the mainland toward the islands for beautiful ocean textures.
Distance: 731 km (454 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 13 min
Departure: YQB (46.7911, -71.393303)
Arrival: YGR (47.42470169067383, -61.778099060058594)
Route Type: Domestic
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