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YVR → YXY
Which side of the plane to sit from Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver) to Whitehorse / Erik Nielsen International Airport (Whitehorse)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the rugged Pacific coastline and the highest peaks of the Coast Mountains, including massive glacial fields and the intersection of mountains and sea.
The Salish Sea
Aerial views of the Gulf Islands and the Strait of Georgia shortly after departing Vancouver.
Mount Waddington
The highest peak in the Coast Mountains, featuring jagged granite spires and deep glacial valleys.
The Inside Passage
A glimpse of the intricate network of fjords, islands, and narrow channels that run along the BC coast.
Juneau Icefield
Vast stretches of ancient blue ice and glaciers near the border of BC, Alaska, and the Yukon.
Tatshenshini-Alsek
Views of one of the world's most pristine wilderness areas and its massive glacial systems.
Sit on the left (port) side for early morning flights to avoid direct sun glare and enjoy the best views of the Pacific coastline. Keep a lookout for the 'Grand Canyon of the Stikine' roughly halfway through the flight. During the winter, this side offers the best chance to see the aurora borealis if flying late at night or very early morning.
Mount Garibaldi
A prominent stratovolcano visible shortly after takeoff over the Squamish region.
Chilko Lake
A stunning, high-altitude turquoise glacial lake nestled within the interior mountains.
Spatsizi Plateau
A vast, rolling wilderness area known as the 'Serengeti of the North' with unique volcanic landforms.
Tagish Lake
An expansive, finger-like lake system that marks the transition into the southern Yukon landscape.
Yukon River
The winding path of the iconic river as it approaches Whitehorse during the final descent.
The right (starboard) side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, providing perfect lighting for the interior mountain ranges. Watch for the dramatic change from lush coastal forests to the drier, sparser sub-arctic landscape of the Yukon plateau as you head north. This side is also excellent for spotting the turquoise waters of Atlin Lake during descent.
Distance: 1,483 km (921 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 59 min
Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Arrival: YXY (60.7095985413, -135.067001343)
Route Type: Domestic
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