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YVR → QBC
Which side of the plane to sit from Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver) to Bella Coola Airport (Bella Coola)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers an unparalleled front-row seat to the most spectacular alpine scenery in North America, including the massive icefields of the Coast Mountains and the towering summit of Mt. Waddington.
The Lions
The iconic twin peaks of the North Shore Mountains visible immediately after departing YVR.
Mount Garibaldi
A massive dacitic stratovolcano that dominates the skyline north of Squamish.
Homathko Icefield
One of the largest icefields in the Coast Mountains, featuring sprawling blue glaciers.
Mount Waddington
The highest peak in British Columbia, surrounded by jagged spires and permanent snowfields.
Bella Coola Valley
A dramatic descent into a narrow, lush valley flanked by 8,000-foot peaks.
The right side is essential for seeing the highest peaks of the Coast Range. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the glaciers. Keep your camera ready about 30-40 minutes into the flight for the Waddington Range.
Strait of Georgia
Expansive views of the coastal waters and the scattered Gulf Islands shortly after takeoff.
Sunshine Coast
The rugged, roadless coastline of British Columbia featuring isolated settlements and deep green forests.
Bute Inlet
A stunning turquoise-colored fjord where the emerald waters meet the vertical granite walls.
Knight Inlet
One of the longest fjords on the coast, known for its grizzly bear habitat and dramatic topography.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to enjoy the golden hour glow over the Pacific Ocean. On the final approach into Bella Coola, this side offers a better view of the North Bentinck Arm fjord opening.
Distance: 428 km (266 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 43 min
Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Arrival: QBC (52.387501, -126.596001)
Route Type: Domestic
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