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YWH destination photo
CXH destination photo

YWHCXH

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers an intimate look at the Victoria Inner Harbour landmarks, the rugged coastline of Salt Spring Island, and a front-row seat to the lush greenery of Stanley Park upon arrival in Vancouver.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏛️

Victoria Inner Harbour

Unbeatable views of the BC Parliament Buildings and the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel immediately upon takeoff.

🌳

Salt Spring Island

Fly over the largest of the Gulf Islands, spotting the charming village of Ganges and diverse agricultural landscapes.

🏖️

Vancouver Island Coast

Follow the eastern coastline of Vancouver Island, featuring secluded coves, rocky outcrops, and private waterfront estates.

⛵

English Bay

Aerial perspective of the numerous cargo ships anchored in the bay and the bustling activity of Kitsilano Beach.

🌲

Stanley Park

A breathtaking low-altitude pass over the 400-hectare urban park, showcasing the seawall and dense cedar forests.

Sit on the left for the best view of the Victoria departure sequence. Morning flights (8:00 AM to 10:00 AM) provide the best light on the islands without the glare from the Strait of Georgia. Keep your camera ready for the final turn over Stanley Park, as the plane descends rapidly for landing.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🚢

Active Pass

Look down into the narrow, high-traffic waterway between Mayne and Galiano Islands, often featuring large BC Ferries.

🧗

Galiano Island Cliffs

Observe the dramatic sandstone formations and the steep ridges of Mount Galiano rising from the Salish Sea.

🏙️

Vancouver Skyline

As you enter the harbour, get a panoramic view of the downtown glass towers and the iconic Canada Place sails.

🌉

Lions Gate Bridge

A spectacular angle on the historic suspension bridge connecting downtown Vancouver to the North Shore.

🏔️

North Shore Mountains

Panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Coast Mountain range looming over the city of Vancouver.

The right side is superior for city enthusiasts, offering the classic Vancouver skyline shot during the final approach. Late afternoon flights (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) offer beautiful 'golden hour' lighting on the city buildings. Watch for Orcas in the Strait of Georgia, as they are frequently spotted in the open water sections.

Top Activities in Vancouver
Route Information

Distance: 99 km (62 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 10 min

Departure: YWH (48.4249858939, -123.388867378)

Arrival: CXH (49.2943992615, -123.111000061)

Route Type: Domestic

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