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YSJ → YHZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Saint John Airport (St. John) to Halifax / Stanfield International Airport (Halifax)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of the inner Bay of Fundy, including the muddy red waters of the Minas Basin and the iconic geological formations of the Nova Scotia coastline.
Saint John Harbor
Aerial view of the industrial port and the mouth of the Saint John River immediately after takeoff.
Minas Basin
The eastern part of the Bay of Fundy, famous for having the highest tides in the world and distinct red mud flats.
Cape Split
A dramatic, narrow rock formation that extends into the bay, creating powerful tidal currents.
Shubenacadie River
A highly serpentine river system visible during the descent into Halifax, known for its tidal bores.
Book a seat on the left to capture the high-contrast colors of the Minas Basin. For the best photography, choose a morning flight to ensure the sun is behind the aircraft, perfectly illuminating the red cliffs and turquoise water. This is a very short flight (approx. 40 minutes), so be ready with your camera immediately after takeoff.
Bay of Fundy
Wide-angle views of the vast waterway separating New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
Isle Haute
A remote and rugged island sitting in the middle of the bay with steep vertical cliffs.
Annapolis Valley
Distant views of Nova Scotia's primary agricultural region, tucked between the North and South Mountains.
Nova Scotia Wilderness
Dense coverage of boreal forest and a patchwork of small glacial lakes as you cross the province's interior.
The right side is ideal for seeing the broader expanse of the bay and the transition into the dense forests of central Nova Scotia. Avoid this side on late afternoon flights, as the westward-tilting sun can cause heavy glare and heat on the window. Look out for Isle Haute, which looks like a lone sentinel in the water.
Distance: 193 km (120 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 19 min
Departure: YSJ (45.31610107421875, -65.89029693603516)
Arrival: YHZ (44.880798339799995, -63.508598327600005)
Route Type: Domestic
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