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YXJ → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Fort St John Airport (Fort Saint John) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point for the rugged peaks of the Coast Mountains, the glaciers of Garibaldi Provincial Park, and the iconic panoramic approach over Howe Sound and the Vancouver skyline.
Omineca Mountains
View the sharp, rugged peaks and remote wilderness of the northern interior mountain ranges early in the flight.
Garibaldi Glaciers
Stunning vistas of ancient ice fields and the turquoise waters of alpine lakes nestled within the southern Coast Mountains.
Howe Sound
The dramatic meeting of mountains and sea, featuring steep fjords, lush islands, and the Sea-to-Sky corridor.
Vancouver Skyline
A world-class view of Stanley Park, the Lion's Gate Bridge, and the glass towers of downtown Vancouver if landing from the west.
Strait of Georgia
Look out over the Salish Sea to see BC Ferries and cargo ships entering the Port of Vancouver near the airport.
The right side is the definitive winner for scenic value. For afternoon flights, you will witness incredible sunsets over the Pacific. If the plane lands toward the west (Runway 26L/R), you will get an unobstructed view of the city center and the North Shore mountains.
Peace River Valley
Aerial views of the winding Peace River and the agricultural plateau surrounding Fort St John shortly after takeoff.
Cariboo Plateau
A vast expanse of dense coniferous forests interspersed with thousands of small lakes and historic ranching lands.
Mount Baker
On clear days during the descent, the massive, snow-capped volcanic peak of Mount Baker in Washington state dominates the southern horizon.
Fraser Valley Mosaic
The lush, green patchwork of dairy farms and berry fields of the Lower Mainland as the aircraft begins its final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side provides excellent views of the Fraser River's industrial activity and the suburban sprawl of Surrey and Delta during the final descent into YVR.
Distance: 800 km (497 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: YXJ (56.23809814453125, -120.73999786376952)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: Domestic
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