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YVR → YYZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver) to Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Toronto)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more extensive view of the rugged Coast Mountains and the vast northern wilderness of the Canadian Shield. It provides a superior perspective of the dense mountain clusters of British Columbia and avoids the direct glare of the sun on eastbound flights during the day.
Coast Mountains
Immediately after takeoff, view the snow-capped peaks of the Garibaldi Ranges and the rugged wilderness north of Vancouver.
Fraser Canyon
Watch the dramatic winding paths of the Fraser and Thompson Rivers as they cut through deep mountain valleys.
Columbia Mountains
Cross over the Selkirk and Purcell ranges, offering spectacular high-altitude views of glacial fields.
Prairie Mosaic
Observe the geometric patterns of the Saskatchewan and Manitoba farmlands, transitioning into the Boreal forest.
Lake Winnipeg
A massive expanse of water visible to the north as the flight crosses the midpoint of the country.
Canadian Shield
The landscape transforms into a beautiful tapestry of millions of small lakes and granite outcrops across Northern Ontario.
Sit in front of the wing for unobstructed views of the Rockies. Since this is an eastbound flight, the sun will be on the right (south) side for most of the day, making the left side better for photography without glare. Keep your window shade open during the first 45 minutes for the best mountain terrain.
Mount Baker
On clear days, the massive volcanic cone in Washington State is clearly visible south of the border shortly after departure.
Okanagan Valley
Look down at the long, narrow finger lakes and the arid, vineyard-filled valleys of interior BC.
Calgary Skyline
As the mountains flatten into the foothills, the downtown core of Calgary and the Saddledome are often visible to the south.
Lake Superior
Catch views of the world's largest freshwater lake and the rugged north shore near Thunder Bay.
Manitoulin Island
Cross over the world's largest freshwater island in Lake Huron during the descent phase.
Toronto Skyline
Depending on the wind and approach path (typically Runway 05 or 06), you may see the CN Tower and downtown core.
The right side is ideal for catching a glimpse of the Toronto skyline on the final approach if the plane circles over Lake Ontario. However, expect significant sun glare on morning and midday flights. During the winter, the low sun angle can make the right side quite hot and bright.
Distance: 3,346 km (2,079 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 56 min
Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Arrival: YYZ (43.6772003174, -79.63059997559999)
Route Type: Domestic
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