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YYD → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Smithers Airport (Smithers) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of dramatic mountain peaks, coastal fjords, and a stunning approach over Howe Sound and the Vancouver skyline.
Hudson Bay Mountain
A close-up view of the iconic glacier and ski runs right after departure from YYD.
Coastal Ranges
Breathtaking views of the snow-capped Kitimat and Coast mountain ranges meeting the Pacific.
Howe Sound
Stunning aerial views of the fjords, Anvil Island, and the Sea-to-Sky corridor during the descent.
Vancouver Skyline
Panoramic views of Stanley Park, Lions Gate Bridge, and the downtown core if approaching from the north.
Strait of Georgia
Watch BC Ferries and cargo ships navigating the waters around the Gulf Islands before touchdown.
The right side is unbeatable for the descent into YVR. If the aircraft approaches from the North (standard for many arrivals), you will get a perfect view of the Lions Gate Bridge and Stanley Park. Afternoon or evening flights offer incredible sunset views over the Salish Sea.
Bulkley Valley
Stunning views of the valley floor and surrounding peaks immediately after takeoff from Smithers.
Interior Plateaus
Vast stretches of untouched BC wilderness and dense coniferous forests stretching toward the horizon.
Fraser Canyon
Glimpses of the rugged river gorge as the flight heads toward the Lower Mainland region.
Mount Baker
On clear days, the massive glaciated volcano in Washington state is visible to the southeast during descent.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and avoid glare. Look for the glaciated peaks of the Coast Mountains and keep an eye out for the white peak of Mount Baker in the distance during the final 15 minutes of the flight.
Distance: 683 km (424 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 8 min
Departure: YYD (54.82469940185547, -127.18299865722656)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: Domestic
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