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YYT → YOW
Which side of the plane to sit from St. John's International Airport (St. John's) to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning sequence of the Atlantic coastline, the vibrant red landscape of Prince Edward Island, and a prime view of the Montreal skyline during the approach into the Ottawa corridor.
Avalon Peninsula
Dramatic rocky cliffs and the crashing Atlantic surf immediately after departing St. John's.
Prince Edward Island
The distinctive red soil and patchwork emerald green fields are highly visible across the Northumberland Strait.
Confederation Bridge
The 12.9km engineering marvel connecting PEI to New Brunswick is visible on clear days.
Montreal Skyline
Excellent views of Mount Royal and the downtown skyscrapers as the flight follows the St. Lawrence valley westward.
Saint Lawrence River
Watch the river narrow from a massive gulf into the commercial artery of Canada's interior.
Book a seat behind the wing to avoid engine glare. On afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses, but the 'Golden Hour' views over the Maritimes are spectacular. Look for the Bay of Fundy tides in the far distance about midway through the flight.
Conception Bay
Clear views of Bell Island and the northern rugged coastline of the Avalon Peninsula shortly after takeoff.
Gaspé Peninsula
The northern Appalachian mountains meet the sea, featuring jagged peaks and deep coastal inlets.
Quebec City
Distant but recognizable views of the historic Old Quebec and the Château Frontenac perched above the river.
Laurentian Mountains
The ancient, rolling forested hills of the Canadian Shield provide a lush green backdrop north of the St. Lawrence.
Ottawa River
The final descent offers views of the winding river that defines the border between Ontario and Quebec.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. During winter and spring, keep an eye out for sea ice and icebergs in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. As you approach Ottawa, this side typically offers a better view of the Gatineau Hills.
Distance: 1,767 km (1,098 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 21 min
Departure: YYT (47.618598938000005, -52.7518997192)
Arrival: YOW (45.3224983215332, -75.66919708251953)
Route Type: Domestic
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