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YVR → YYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver) to Smithers Airport (Smithers)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled view of the rugged Coast Mountains, the deep fjords of the BC coastline, and the massive icefields around Mount Waddington, the highest peak in British Columbia.
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Howe Sound & Sunshine Coast
Aerial views of the island-dotted waters and deep fjords immediately north of Vancouver.
Mount Waddington
The highest peak in the Coast Mountains, featuring dramatic glaciated spires and the Waddington Range.
Knight Inlet
One of the longest and most dramatic glacial fjords on the BC coast, carved deep into the mountains.
Homathko Icefield
A vast expanse of perennial ice and snow covering the high plateaus of the coastal range.
Tweedsmuir South Park
Expansive wilderness areas featuring the colorful Rainbow Range and pristine alpine lakes.
Sit on the left side to witness the transition from the Pacific Ocean to the high alpine. For the best photography, choose a morning flight to avoid the glare of the afternoon sun reflecting off the glaciers. Ensure your window is clear, as the peaks of the Coast Range are exceptionally sharp and detailed from cruising altitude.
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Vancouver Skyline
Panoramic views of Stanley Park, the Lions Gate Bridge, and downtown Vancouver during takeoff.
Garibaldi Provincial Park
Look for the iconic Black Tusk, a jagged volcanic spire, and the turquoise waters of Lake Garibaldi.
Whistler Blackcomb
Clearly visible ski runs and the alpine village of North America's premier ski resort.
Chilcotin Plateau
The landscape transitions into the high-altitude interior plateau with vast forests and winding rivers.
Hudson Bay Mountain
The iconic twin peaks overlooking Smithers as the plane begins its final approach into the Bulkley Valley.
The right side is superior for urban views during the initial climb out of YVR. Keep a lookout for the 'Black Tusk' near Whistler, which is easily recognizable by its dark, pointed shape. During the descent into Smithers, the right side provides a great perspective of the valley floor and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Book Hotels in SmithersDistance: 683 km (424 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 8 min
Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Arrival: YYD (54.82469940185547, -127.18299865722656)
Route Type: Domestic
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