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YUL → BCN
Which side of the plane to sit from Montreal / Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (Montreal) to Barcelona International Airport (Barcelona)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior chance of seeing the dramatic Pyrenees mountain range upon arrival in Europe and, depending on the Great Circle track, potential views of the southern tip of Greenland and the northern lights during night flights.
St. Lawrence River
Aerial views of the wide St. Lawrence waterway as you depart Montreal heading northeast.
Labrador Wilderness
Rugged, lake-filled terrain of northern Quebec and Labrador before the Atlantic crossing.
Greenland Icecap
If taking a northerly track, you may spot the jagged, icy coastline of Southern Greenland.
The Pyrenees
Dramatic snow-capped peaks separating France and Spain during the descent into Barcelona.
Barcelona Cityscape
On many approach patterns to BCN, the left side provides views of the Sagrada Familia and city grid.
Aurora Borealis
During winter night flights, the northern horizon often glows with the Northern Lights.
Choose the left side for the best chance of seeing the Pyrenees Mountains during the morning arrival. If your flight is during the winter months, keep your window shade open and your eyes on the northern horizon for potential Aurora Borealis activity during the dark transatlantic crossing. For the final approach, the left side is generally better for spotting the city's iconic architecture if the wind dictates a landing from the southwest.
Gaspé Peninsula
Views of the forested hills and coastal cliffs of eastern Quebec shortly after takeoff.
Transatlantic Sunrise
A spectacular view of the sun rising over the Atlantic horizon as you approach Europe.
Cantabrian Coast
The rugged northern coastline of Spain as the aircraft enters European airspace.
Montserrat Massif
The unique, serrated peaks of the Montserrat mountain range visible during the descent.
Mediterranean Sea
Deep blue views of the Mediterranean as the plane turns for its final approach into BCN.
The right side is ideal for those who enjoy watching the sunrise over the ocean, which typically occurs a few hours before landing. This side also offers excellent views of the Montserrat mountains near Barcelona. When landing at BCN (especially on Runway 06L/24R), you'll often have a beautiful view of the Mediterranean coastline and the Port of Barcelona.
Distance: 5,911 km (3,673 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 57 min
Departure: YUL (45.4706001282, -73.7407989502)
Arrival: BCN (41.2971, 2.07846)
Route Type: International
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