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YQQ → YBL
Which side of the plane to sit from Comox Airport (Comox) to Campbell River Airport (Campbell River)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers spectacular, unobstructed views of the Salish Sea, the intricate network of the Discovery Islands, and the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island. This side captures the maritime essence of the Pacific Northwest better than the land-facing left side.
The Salish Sea
Vast blue vistas of the Strait of Georgia with the mainland Coast Mountains visible on the far horizon.
Discovery Islands
Exceptional views of Quadra Island and the smaller islets that dot the northern Salish Sea.
Oyster Bay Shoreline
The plane follows the coast closely, providing detailed views of the beaches and rocky outcrops near Oyster River.
Discovery Passage
As you approach Campbell River, watch for tugboats and cruise ships navigating the narrow, high-current waterway.
Seymour Narrows
Look slightly north of the airport during the descent to see the infamous tidal rapids of the Discovery Passage.
The right side is best for morning flights to avoid glare and capture the sun illuminating the islands. Keep an eye on the water for white-water wakes, which often indicate pods of Pacific White-Sided dolphins or humpback whales frequently spotted in these coastal waters.
Comox Valley Panoramas
Immediately after takeoff, see the sprawling residential areas of Comox and Courtenay nestled against the forest.
Strathcona Peaks
Distant views of the snow-capped Forbidden Plateau and the rugged interior mountains of Vancouver Island.
Tsolum River Basin
Observe the winding river carving through dense second-growth Douglas fir and cedar forests.
Mount Washington
On clear days, the ski runs and alpine terrain of Mount Washington are visible to the west.
Choose the left side for sunset flights, as the sun dips behind the Vancouver Island ranges, creating a dramatic silhouette. In winter, the snow-covered peaks of Strathcona Provincial Park are much more prominent and photogenic from this side.
Distance: 38 km (24 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 min
Departure: YQQ (49.71080017089844, -124.88700103759766)
Arrival: YBL (49.95080184936523, -125.27100372314452)
Route Type: Domestic
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