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YVR → YOW
Which side of the plane to sit from Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver) to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the rugged North Shore Mountains during takeoff, the highest peaks of the Canadian Rockies, and the stunning Gatineau Hills on approach into Ottawa.
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North Shore Mountains
Breathtaking views of the peaks surrounding Vancouver immediately after takeoff.
Mount Robson
Potential sightings of the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies near the BC/Alberta border.
The Prairies
The expansive, geometric patchwork of the Saskatchewan and Manitoba agricultural heartlands.
Canadian Shield
Vast stretches of ancient rock, boreal forest, and thousands of glaciated lakes in Northern Ontario.
Algonquin Provincial Park
A bird's-eye view of Ontario's most famous wilderness park during the descent.
Gatineau Hills
Rolling green hills and the Gatineau River visible just before landing in Ottawa.
Sit in front of the wing to avoid engine heat haze when photographing the Rockies. On morning flights, the lighting on the Gatineau Hills during arrival is spectacular. In winter, the frozen patterns on the northern lakes of Ontario are visually striking.
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Vancouver Skyline
Excellent views of downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park if departing on an eastbound runway.
Mount Baker
The massive, snow-capped volcano in Washington State is often visible to the south.
Fraser Valley
The lush agricultural lands and the winding Fraser River heading east from Vancouver.
Lake Superior
Vast views of the northern coastline of the largest Great Lake.
Georgian Bay
The turquoise waters and rocky islands of the 'Sixth Great Lake' area.
Ottawa River
Clear views of the river dividing Ontario and Quebec during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for catching the sunset if flying in the late afternoon, as the sun will be to the south/southwest. Keep an eye out for the distinct blue of the Great Lakes which stands out against the dark green of the Ontario forests.
Book Hotels in OttawaDistance: 3,552 km (2,207 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 11 min
Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Arrival: YOW (45.3224983215332, -75.66919708251953)
Route Type: Domestic
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