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YXS destination photo
YVR destination photo

YXSYVR

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular vantage point for the glaciated peaks of the Coast Mountain Range and the dramatic coastline transition as you approach Vancouver.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏔️

Coast Mountain Range

Incredible views of the high Pacific Cordillera, featuring jagged granite peaks and sprawling icefields.

🌲

Chilcotin Wilderness

Fly over the rugged, remote wilderness that defines the transition from the plateau to the mountains.

🌊

Howe Sound

A stunning glacial fjord with emerald waters and steep forested cliffs near Squamish.

🏝️

Sunshine Coast

A beautiful view of the winding coastline, inlets, and small islands dotting the Salish Sea.

⛴️

Strait of Georgia

Watch for BC Ferries and cargo ships crossing the water between the mainland and Vancouver Island.

The right side is superior for mountain and water views. Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. This side is particularly breathtaking during afternoon flights when the sun glints off the Strait of Georgia and highlights the textures of the mountain ridges. Watch for the 'lions' peaks as you pass over West Vancouver.

Left Side Highlights
8.4
🛶

Fraser River

Follow the winding path of British Columbia's longest river as it carves through the interior.

🌋

Garibaldi Provincial Park

Look for the jagged peaks and turquoise alpine lakes of the Garibaldi volcanic belt.

🏔️

Mount Baker

On clear days, the massive, snow-covered volcanic cone in Washington State is visible to the southeast.

🏙️

Greater Vancouver

A sprawling view of the urban landscape, including Burnaby and the Fraser Valley, during the descent.

🎿

North Shore Mountains

Get a close look at the local ski hills of Cypress, Grouse, and Seymour just before landing.

Sit on the left if you want to see the volcanic peaks of Garibaldi Park and the sunrise/morning light hitting the Coast Mountains. This side is also best for spotting Mount Baker's white peak on the horizon when the sky is clear. In the winter, the contrast of the snow against the dark evergreen forests is stunning.

Top Activities in Vancouver
Route Information

Distance: 523 km (325 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 52 min

Departure: YXS (53.8894004822, -122.679000854)

Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)

Route Type: Domestic

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