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YYZ → CUN
Which side of the plane to sit from Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Toronto) to Cancún International Airport (Cancun)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route primarily due to the spectacular approach into Cancun. Passengers on the left typically enjoy breathtaking views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea, Isla Mujeres, and the vibrant coral reefs before touchdown, whereas the right side often looks inland toward the jungle.
Niagara Falls
Visible shortly after departure from YYZ, look for the massive mist clouds and the distinct horseshoe shape of the falls.
Appalachian Mountains
Dramatic ridge-and-valley formations stretching across Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Florida Panhandle
As you exit the U.S. mainland, the emerald green waters and white sands of Destin and Pensacola are often visible.
Isla Mujeres
A stunning view of the long, narrow island surrounded by varying shades of blue water just minutes before landing.
Great Maya Reef
The intricate patterns of the world's second-largest barrier reef system are clearly visible through the shallow Caribbean waters.
Book a window seat on the left (Port) side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight glare. About 20 minutes before landing, keep your camera ready as the deep blue of the Gulf of Mexico transitions into the neon turquoise of the Yucatan shelf. If the aircraft approaches from the north, this side offers the most iconic 'tropical paradise' views.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Views of the southern Ontario coast and the industrial beauty of the Great Lakes shipping lanes.
Mississippi Delta
Depending on the specific airway, you may see the vast, branching sediment plumes where the Mississippi meets the Gulf.
Gulf Sunset
On late afternoon flights, this side offers an unobstructed view of the sun setting over the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Yucatan Jungle
An endless canopy of deep green tropical forest as you cross the coastline near the El Meco ruins.
Cancun Hotel Zone
The famous '7-shaped' strip of high-rise resorts and the Nichupté Lagoon can often be seen during the final turn.
The right side (Starboard) is the better choice for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the water. While the approach views are generally more land-based than the left, you may get a closer look at the sprawling resort architecture of the Hotel Zone if the pilot performs a wide southern pattern for landing.
Distance: 2,605 km (1,619 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 28 min
Departure: YYZ (43.6772003174, -79.63059997559999)
Arrival: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Route Type: International
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