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YVR → PVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver) to Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (Puerto Vallarta)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic 'Ring of Fire' volcanoes, the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains, and the striking desert transitions of the Mexican interior.
Cascade Volcanoes
Shortly after takeoff, view the majestic peaks of Mt. Baker, Mt. Rainier, and Mt. St. Helens piercing the clouds.
Mount Shasta
A massive, snow-capped stratovolcano that dominates the landscape in Northern California.
Sierra Nevada Range
The high-altitude granite peaks and alpine lakes of eastern California stretch for hundreds of miles.
Sonoran Desert
The transition into Mexico features vast arid plains and rugged canyon formations in the state of Sonora.
Sierra Madre Occidental
The final descent flies over the lush, green western mountain range of Mexico before reaching the coast.
Sit on the left for a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the mountains. This side is superior for geological diversity, moving from temperate rainforest peaks to arid canyons. Keep your camera ready in the first 60 minutes for the PNW volcanoes.
Pacific Coastline
Continuous views of the rugged Oregon and Northern California coastlines and the deep blue ocean.
SF Bay Area
On clear days, see the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco peninsula from high altitude.
Baja Peninsula
A stunning view across the Sea of Cortez to the desert mountains of the Baja California peninsula.
Sea of Cortez
The vibrant blue water between the Mexican mainland and the peninsula, often dotted with small islands.
Banderas Bay
The final approach usually offers an expansive view of the horseshoe-shaped bay and the Puerto Vallarta shoreline.
Choose the right side for late afternoon or sunset flights to witness the sun dipping into the Pacific Ocean. This side is also best for the final approach into PVR, as planes typically bank over the water, giving you a full view of the resort zone and the bay.
Distance: 3,547 km (2,204 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 10 min
Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Arrival: PVR (20.680099487304688, -105.25399780273438)
Route Type: International
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