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YXL destination photo
YQT destination photo

YXLYQT

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is slightly superior due to the spectacular views of Thunder Bay and the iconic Sleeping Giant landform during the descent into Lake Superior's northern shores.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🛶

Lac Seul & Pelican Lake

Immediately after takeoff, view the intricate network of water surrounding Sioux Lookout, including the sprawling Lac Seul to the north.

🌲

Boreal Shield Forest

A continuous expanse of deep green spruce and pine forests dotted with thousands of unnamed glacial lakes characteristic of the Canadian Shield.

🏙️

Thunder Bay Cityscape

On approach, the left side offers a clear view of the city's waterfront, grain elevators, and industrial heritage.

🗿

The Sleeping Giant

The most famous landmark in the region, this massive rock formation on the Sibley Peninsula is often visible across the bay during final descent.

🌊

Lake Superior

Catch the first glimpses of the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area as the plane banks toward the runway.

Book a window seat ahead of the wing for the best view of the Sleeping Giant. For morning flights, the sun will be on the right, making the left side better for photography without glare. Look for the massive grain elevators along the shore, which look like concrete cathedrals from above.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏘️

Sioux Lookout Townsite

Excellent views of the town 'Hub of the North' and its historic railway connections during the initial climb.

💧

Wabigoon Lake Region

Views toward the south reveal the complex waterways leading toward the Dryden area and the vast Ontario interior.

🐍

Kaministiquia River

Watch the winding, snake-like path of the 'Kam' River as it flows toward its delta in Thunder Bay.

⛰️

Mount McKay

A prominent flat-topped volcanic mountain (norite) located on the Fort William First Nation, visible just south of the airport during landing.

💦

Kakabeka Falls Area

Depending on the flight path, you may spot the mist or the gorge of the 'Niagara of the North' located west of the city.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to enjoy the warm sunset glow over the wilderness. Keep an eye out for Mount McKay during the final two minutes of the flight; it is a very distinctive plateau that dominates the southern horizon. Since many flights are on smaller turboprop aircraft, try to sit at the very front or back to avoid the engine nacelles obstructing your view.

Top Activities in Thunder Bay
Route Information

Distance: 269 km (167 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 27 min

Departure: YXL (50.11389923095703, -91.9052963256836)

Arrival: YQT (48.37189865112305, -89.32389831542969)

Route Type: Domestic

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