Loading map...

YWG destination photo
YVR destination photo

YWGYVR

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the core Canadian Rockies, including the Banff area and the Columbia Icefields, followed by a stunning approach over the North Shore mountains and Howe Sound into Vancouver.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🌊

Lake Manitoba

View the expansive, shallow lakes of the Manitoba Lowlands shortly after departing the Winnipeg area.

🏔️

Banff National Park

Fly directly over the heart of the Canadian Rockies with views of iconic jagged limestone peaks.

❄️

Columbia Icefield

Spot massive glacial structures and ancient ice fields nestled between the highest summits of the range.

🏞️

Thompson River Valley

Observe the transition from the high alpine peaks to the arid, golden landscapes of the BC interior.

🏙️

Vancouver North Shore

See the dramatic fjord of Howe Sound and the steep mountains overlooking the city of Vancouver.

Select a window seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. The right side provides the best morning light on the Rockies without the sun's glare directly in your eyes. On the final approach into YVR, the right side usually offers the iconic view of the downtown skyline and the North Shore mountains. Note that in late summer, forest fire smoke can sometimes obscure the deep valley views.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌾

Red River Valley

Observe the fertile agricultural patterns and the winding river south of Winnipeg shortly after takeoff.

🏔️

Kootenay Mountains

Deep valleys and rugged peaks of the Purcell and Selkirk ranges visible as you enter British Columbia.

🍇

Okanagan Valley

Catch glimpses of the long, narrow Lake Okanagan and the surrounding vineyard-covered hillsides.

🌋

Mount Baker

The snow-capped volcanic giant in Washington state is often visible on the southern horizon on clear days.

🏙️

Fraser River Delta

Watch the silt-rich waters meet the Pacific Ocean during the final descent into Richmond.

Sit on the left for the best views of the Fraser River delta and the US border region. If flying at sunset, this side will experience the full intensity of the sun, so keep your shades ready. The view of Mount Baker is a highlight but depends on air traffic patterns and cloud cover over the border.

Top Activities in Vancouver
Route Information

Distance: 1,864 km (1,158 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 29 min

Departure: YWG (49.909999847399995, -97.2398986816)

Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.