Loading map...

YQQ destination photo
YBL destination photo

YQQYBL

Which side of the plane to sit from Comox Airport (Comox) to Campbell River Airport (Campbell River)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏘️

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.

Top Activities in Campbell River
Route Information

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

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