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YYZ → SXM
Which side of the plane to sit from Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Toronto) to Princess Juliana International Airport (Philipsburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the United States coastline and a spectacular bird's-eye view of the turquoise Bahamas and Turks and Caicos island chains during the descent.
Niagara Falls
Depending on the departure path, a distant view of the Niagara River and the mist from the falls can often be spotted.
Outer Banks
The thin ribbon of the North Carolina barrier islands is frequently visible as the flight tracks south along the coast.
The Bahamas
Stunning transitions from deep blue to vibrant turquoise as you fly over the Great Bahama Bank and the Exuma Cays.
Turks and Caicos
Unrivaled views of the coral reefs and shallow sandbars surrounding Providenciales and the Caicos Bank.
Simpson Bay Lagoon
During the iconic landing at SXM, see the yachts in the lagoon and the famous Maho Beach crowds just before touchdown.
The right side is highly recommended for the Caribbean portion of the flight. To maximize the view of the Bahamas, try to book a flight that departs Toronto between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM to ensure the sun is high enough to illuminate the reefs without creating excessive reflection on the water.
Toronto Skyline
Clear views of the CN Tower and downtown Toronto immediately after takeoff from Pearson's southern runways.
Atlantic Horizon
Expansive views of the open Atlantic Ocean for the majority of the mid-flight duration.
British Virgin Islands
Distant views of the mountainous peaks of the Virgin Islands as the flight begins its final descent into St. Maarten.
St. Martin Northern Coast
Views of the rugged northern coastline of the island and the nearby island of Anguilla during the final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights if you want to see the sunrise over the Atlantic, though glare can be intense. This side is also excellent for seeing the Toronto skyline if the wind dictates a westward departure.
Distance: 3,244 km (2,016 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 49 min
Departure: YYZ (43.6772003174, -79.63059997559999)
Arrival: SXM (18.0410003662, -63.1088981628)
Route Type: International
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