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YYZ → RDU
Which side of the plane to sit from Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Toronto) to Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the vast Appalachian mountain ridges, the transition from the Great Lakes to the Piedmont, and a spectacular look at Pilot Mountain during the final approach phase.
GTA Skyline
Excellent views of Mississauga and the western Toronto suburbs during the initial climb-out sequence.
Lake Erie
The shimmering expanse of Lake Erie's eastern basin and the shoreline of Erie, Pennsylvania.
Allegheny National Forest
Dense, uninterrupted forest canopies that provide vibrant colors during the autumn months.
Appalachian Ridges
The stunning geological 'Fold and Thrust' belt of the Appalachian Mountains, featuring long, parallel ridges.
Pilot Mountain
The iconic, isolated peak in North Carolina that serves as a landmark for pilots and passengers alike during the descent.
Choose the right side for afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the mountains. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing to capture Pilot Mountain. This side provides the best geological perspective of the Blue Ridge transition. Seasonal note: late October offers incredible fall foliage views through the Virginia highlands.
Toronto Shoreline
Aerial perspective of the CN Tower and the dense urban sprawl of the Greater Toronto Area immediately after departure.
Niagara River
A view of the water connecting Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, often including the mist from the falls in the distance.
Buffalo Metro
The industrial and urban landscape of Buffalo, New York, as the flight moves south toward the Pennsylvania border.
The Susquehanna
The winding path of the Susquehanna River cutting through the folded mountain ridges of central Pennsylvania.
D.C. Perimeter
On clear days, the distant skyline and sprawling suburbs of the Washington D.C. metropolitan area are visible to the east.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and enjoy the sunrise reflecting off Lake Ontario. During winter, look for the stark contrast of snow-covered ridges in the Allegheny Mountains. This side is also better for spotting the Chesapeake Bay in the far distance during high-altitude cruising.
Distance: 870 km (541 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min
Departure: YYZ (43.6772003174, -79.63059997559999)
Arrival: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Route Type: International
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