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YXY → YLW
Which side of the plane to sit from Whitehorse / Erik Nielsen International Airport (Whitehorse) to Kelowna International Airport (Kelowna)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer incredible views of the Canadian wilderness, the right side provides a superior perspective of the towering Coast Mountains, volcanic landmarks like Mount Edziza, and the scenic descent into the Okanagan Valley.
Coast Mountains
Spectacular views of some of Canada's highest peaks and massive alpine icefields.
Mount Edziza
A unique volcanic plateau featuring cinder cones and dark lava flows amidst the snow.
Skeena River
The 'River of Mists' winding through deep valleys on its way to the Pacific Ocean.
Fraser Plateau
The expansive interior heartland of BC, marked by winding rivers and ancient plateaus.
Okanagan Lake
An iconic 135km long lake surrounded by vineyards and the city of Kelowna during descent.
The right side is unbeatable for sunset flights, as the sun dips behind the Pacific Coast Mountains. Look for the distinct volcanic shape of Mount Edziza about 30-40 minutes into the flight. On the final approach into YLW, this side often offers the best view of the long, narrow Okanagan Lake and the urban sprawl of Kelowna.
Cassiar Mountains
A vast wilderness of rugged, jagged peaks stretching across the Yukon-BC border.
Williston Lake
The largest reservoir in British Columbia, featuring intricate shorelines and deep blue water.
Northern Rockies
Dramatic limestone formations and deep valleys typical of the northern stretch of the Rocky Mountain Trench.
Cariboo Mountains
Lush, high-altitude terrain known for its deep snowpack and dense evergreen forests.
Monashee Range
The final major mountain barrier before the landscape opens up into the Okanagan region.
Choose this side if you are flying in the morning; the rising sun will illuminate the peaks of the Northern Rockies and the Cassiar range. Keep an eye out for the vastness of the Williston Lake reservoir mid-flight, which looks like a massive blue ribbon cutting through the green wilderness.
Distance: 1,546 km (961 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 4 min
Departure: YXY (60.7095985413, -135.067001343)
Arrival: YLW (49.9561004639, -119.377998352)
Route Type: Domestic
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