While takeoff favors the right for Edmonton's river valley, the landing approach into Ottawa strongly favors the left side for the Gatineau Hills and river confluence views. Since the landing sequence provides more dramatic and geographically distinctive features, left side wins overall.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Canadian Shield's transition zone. Notable features include the Great Lakes region (Lake Superior visible to the south on clear days during the eastern portion of flight), the Canadian Shield's rocky terrain and boreal forest becoming increasingly visible as you progress east from the Prairie provinces, and the transition from relatively flat Alberta/Saskatchewan terrain to the more rugged topography of Ontario. The flight typically cruises at 33,000-35,000 feet, so individual lakes and rivers blend into a textured landscape, but the overall terrain change from prairie to shield is perceptible.
Phase by phase
Takeoff from
Landing at
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Edmonton International (YEG) to Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Edmonton to Ottawa. While takeoff favors the right for Edmonton's river valley, the landing approach into Ottawa strongly favors the left side for the Gatineau Hills and river confluence views. Since the landing sequence provides more dramatic and geographically distinctive features, left side wins overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Edmonton International in Edmonton?
During takeoff from Edmonton International (YEG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side seats capture the North Saskatchewan River valley as it winds through Edmonton's urban core during climb-out. You'll see the river's distinctive meanders and the city's grid layout spreading eastward, with clear definition of the river's course against the surrounding landscape. Notable sights include: North Saskatchewan River valley, Edmonton city grid and downtown core, Whyte Avenue district, industrial areas east of the airport.
What can I see when landing at Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International in Ottawa?
When landing at Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides superior views during descent into YOW. You'll see the Gatineau Hills rising distinctly on the left as you approach from the west, and the Ottawa River's confluence with the Rideau River becomes visible, showing the city's geographic setting between two major waterways. Notable sights include: Gatineau Hills, Ottawa River, Rideau River, Parliament Hill and downtown Ottawa core.
How long is the flight from Edmonton to Ottawa?
The flight from Edmonton International (YEG) to Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) takes Approximately 3 hours 45 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Edmonton to Ottawa flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Canadian Shield's transition zone. Notable features include the Great Lakes region (Lake Superior visible to the south on clear days during the eastern portion of flight), the Canadian Shield's rocky terrain and boreal forest becoming increasingly visible as you progress east from the Prairie provinces, and the transition from relatively flat Alberta/Saskatchewan terrain to the more rugged topography of Ontario. The flight typically cruises at 33,000-35,000 feet, so individual lakes and rivers blend into a textured landscape, but the overall terrain change from prairie to shield is perceptible.