Loading map...
YQZ → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Quesnel Airport (Quesnel) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the dramatic transition from the arid Cariboo plateau to the jagged Coast Mountains, including the deep gorges of the Fraser Canyon and the scenic approach over Howe Sound and the Vancouver skyline.
Fraser River Canyon
A spectacular view of the river cutting a deep, narrow path through the mountain ranges below.
Coast Mountain Range
An endless sea of glacier-capped peaks and high alpine wilderness stretching toward the ocean.
Howe Sound
Beautiful glacial fjords, emerald waters, and forested islands like Bowen and Gambier.
Vancouver Skyline
A bird's-eye view of Stanley Park, the Lions Gate Bridge, and the glass towers of the downtown core.
Strait of Georgia
The busy coastal waterway filled with BC Ferries, cargo ships, and the distant silhouettes of Vancouver Island.
The right side is premier for the 'coastal reveal.' Sit here for the best views of the Fraser River's geography and the dramatic entry into the Lower Mainland. During sunset flights, the mountains and Howe Sound are bathed in golden light, though window glare can be an issue. Request a seat ahead of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the downtown peninsula during the turn for landing.
Cariboo Plateau
Vast stretches of evergreen forests and rolling ranch lands typical of the British Columbia interior.
Marble Range
Distinctive limestone peaks that provide a rugged contrast to the surrounding forested plateau.
Mount Baker
On clear days, the massive, ice-covered volcanic peak in Washington State dominates the southern horizon.
Fraser Valley
The sprawling agricultural landscape and suburban communities east of Vancouver as the plane descends.
Choose the left side for soft morning light reflecting off interior lakes. Keep an eye out for the North Shore Mountains during the final approach, and look far south to spot the white cone of Mount Baker. This side is typically quieter for glare during late afternoon flights heading south.
Distance: 429 km (267 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 43 min
Departure: YQZ (53.026100158691406, -122.51000213623048)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.