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YVR → YKA
Which side of the plane to sit from Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver) to Kamloops Airport (Kamloops)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior perspective of the North Shore Mountains and the glacier-carved peaks of the Coast Range before entering the Thompson-Nicola region.
Vancouver Skyline
A stunning overview of Stanley Park, the downtown core, and the Burrard Inlet during the initial ascent.
The Lions Peaks
The iconic twin granite peaks of the North Shore Mountains are visible shortly after departure.
Garibaldi Park Glaciers
Vast ice fields and rugged alpine terrain of the Coast Mountains visible as you fly northeast.
Stein Valley Wilderness
Deep, untouched valleys and old-growth forests within the Stein Valley Nlaka'pamux Heritage Park.
Thompson River Canyon
The dramatic transition from lush alpine forests to the semi-arid, sagebrush-dotted terrain of the interior.
For the most dramatic photography, choose a morning flight to ensure the sun is behind the aircraft, illuminating the North Shore peaks. If departing on Runway 08L, the left side offers an immediate and clear view of the city and Howe Sound. Look for the turquoise waters of alpine lakes hidden in the mountains during summer months.
Fraser River Delta
The intricate silt-heavy channels of the Fraser River flowing into the Salish Sea.
Fraser Valley
Aerial views of the patchwork agricultural lands stretching through Langley, Abbotsford, and Chilliwack.
Golden Ears
The sharp, distinctive twin peaks of Mount Blanshard in Golden Ears Provincial Park.
Coquihalla Corridor
The high-elevation highway pass winding through the rugged Cascade Mountain Range.
Nicola Valley
Rolling golden grasslands and ranching territory as the aircraft begins its descent into Kamloops.
The right side is excellent for observing the industrial and agricultural heart of British Columbia. During sunset flights, this side catches the golden hour light over the Nicola Valley's rolling hills. Watch for the dramatic 'V' shape of the Coquihalla Highway as it carves through the mountains south of the flight path.
Distance: 258 km (160 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 26 min
Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Arrival: YKA (50.7022018433, -120.444000244)
Route Type: Domestic
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