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YUL → BOD
Which side of the plane to sit from Montreal / Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (Montreal) to Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (Bordeaux)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer distinct advantages, the right side provides a superior view of the French Atlantic coastline, the iconic Dune du Pilat, and a sprawling perspective of the Médoc vineyards during the final descent into Bordeaux.
Gaspé Peninsula
Rugged coastal cliffs and dense forests of eastern Quebec as the plane heads toward the ocean.
Arcachon Bay
The striking turquoise waters and oyster beds of the Bassin d'Arcachon visible just before landing.
Dune du Pilat
Europe's tallest sand dune, standing starkly between the pine forests and the Atlantic surf.
Médoc Vineyards
Geometrically perfect rows of world-famous grapevines in the Châteaux country during the final approach.
Bordeaux Cityscape
The 'Port of the Moon' and its limestone architecture often visible during a southern loop for landing.
The right side is the 'scenic winner' for the arrival phase. Most flights arrive in Bordeaux in the morning; the sun will be behind you or to the side, providing excellent lighting for photography of the Dune du Pilat and the vineyards. Try to book a seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the coastline as it emerges from the Atlantic.
Montreal Skyline
Panoramic views of downtown Montreal, Mount Royal, and the Olympic Stadium immediately after takeoff from YUL.
St. Lawrence River
Follow the expansive blue ribbon of the St. Lawrence as it widens toward the Gulf.
Aurora Borealis
On overnight flights, the northern-facing left side offers the best chance to spot the Northern Lights over the North Atlantic.
Gironde Estuary
The massive meeting point of the Garonne and Dordogne rivers as you cross into French airspace.
Choose the left side for overnight departures to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis. During the morning arrival, this side offers the best perspective of the northern bank of the Gironde, though it may be backlit by the rising sun. Use a window polarizer to reduce glare from the water as you cross the Atlantic.
Distance: 5,518 km (3,429 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 30 min
Departure: YUL (45.4706001282, -73.7407989502)
Arrival: BOD (44.8283004761, -0.7155560255050001)
Route Type: International
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