Loading map...
YZF → YOW
Which side of the plane to sit from Yellowknife Airport (Yellowknife) to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers superior views of the rugged East Arm of Great Slave Lake and the transition from the subarctic wilderness to the Hudson Bay lowlands, plus it provides the optimal viewing angle for the Aurora Borealis during night flights.
Great Slave Lake East Arm
Breathtaking views of the deepest lake in North America, featuring rugged cliffs and deep blue water.
Aurora Borealis
On night flights, this side faces north, offering the best chance to see the Northern Lights away from the moon's glare.
Hudson Bay Lowlands
A vast expanse of peatlands and wetlands that create intricate patterns when viewed from cruising altitude.
James Bay
The distinct coastline where the northern wilderness meets the southern tip of the Arctic Ocean's waters.
Ottawa River Valley
During the descent, enjoy the scenic transition into the lush greenery and winding waterways leading into the capital.
For the best experience, choose an evening flight and sit on the left to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora. During winter months, the frozen Great Slave Lake offers a stark, beautiful white landscape. Keep your window shade up as you cross northern Ontario to spot the intricate network of thousands of small shield lakes.
Canadian Shield
Endless views of the ancient granite rock formations and dense boreal forests that define the Canadian heartland.
Lake Superior
Depending on the specific flight path, you may catch a glimpse of the northern shores of the largest of the Great Lakes.
Algonquin Park
Aerial views of Ontario's famous wilderness park, known for its dense forests and interconnected lake systems.
Ottawa Skyline
On a southern approach, you may see the Peace Tower and the Parliament buildings as you prepare to land.
Trans-Canada Corridors
Spot the infrastructure connecting the remote north to the southern urban centers near the end of the journey.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun as you travel southeast. This side offers a great perspective of the vastness of the boreal forest. During autumn, the change in foliage color over Algonquin Provincial Park and the Ottawa Valley is spectacular.
Distance: 3,100 km (1,926 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 39 min
Departure: YZF (62.46279907226562, -114.44000244140624)
Arrival: YOW (45.3224983215332, -75.66919708251953)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.