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YSB destination photo
YQT destination photo

YSBYQT

Which side of the plane to sit from Sudbury Airport (Sudbury) to Thunder Bay Airport (Thunder Bay)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a stunning perspective of the Lake Superior coastline, including the dramatic cliffs of the north shore and the iconic Sleeping Giant formation upon arrival in Thunder Bay.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Lake Superior North Shore

Expansive views of the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area, featuring deep blue waters and rugged rocky inlets.

🌲

Pukaskwa National Park

Aerial views of the wild, untouched coastline known for its ancient granite shores and dense boreal forests.

🗿

The Sleeping Giant

As the plane descends into YQT, look for the Nanabijou rock formation on the Sibley Peninsula, which looks like a giant lying on its back.

🏝️

St. Ignace Island

A large, remote island near the Nipigon Bay area characterized by its high elevations and dramatic shoreline.

Sit on the left (Port) side for the best chance to see the Lake Superior shoreline. For afternoon flights, be aware that the sun will be on this side, which may cause glare; morning flights offer the best lighting for photography of the coast. Choose a seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Sleeping Giant during the final approach into Thunder Bay.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🛶

The Spanish River

A historic waterway winding through the Canadian Shield, once a vital route for the fur trade.

💎

Glacial Lake Clusters

Thousands of small, shimmering kettle lakes carved by retreating glaciers, scattered across the emerald forest floor.

🦌

Boreal Wilderness

Vast stretches of spruce, fir, and pine trees that make up the quintessential Northern Ontario landscape.

⛏️

Mining Landscape

Visible open pits and tailing ponds near the Sudbury basin, reflecting the region's rich geological and industrial history.

The right side is ideal for travelers who enjoy the geometric patterns of the Canadian Shield and the 'land of a thousand lakes' aesthetic. This side generally has softer lighting during westbound afternoon flights as the sun is on the opposite side. Keep an eye out for logging roads and remote rail lines that carve thin paths through the otherwise dense forest canopy.

Top Activities in Thunder Bay
Route Information

Distance: 669 km (416 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min

Departure: YSB (46.625, -80.79889678955078)

Arrival: YQT (48.37189865112305, -89.32389831542969)

Route Type: Domestic

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