While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is significantly more dramatic and memorable—the Yukon River's S-curve and Whitehorse's valley setting are exceptional. Left-side seats capture the most visually distinctive geography of this route.
Flown YEG to YXY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Edmonton to Whitehorse is 950 miles (1,528 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the boreal forest transition zone of northern Alberta and British Columbia. Notable features include the Hay River drainage system (visible around the 1-hour mark), the transition from agricultural Alberta to dense coniferous forest, scattered lakes and muskeg terrain in the Northwest Territories approach, and the gradual rise in elevation as the aircraft approaches the Yukon plateau. The landscape becomes increasingly remote and forested, with fewer visible settlements after leaving Alberta. Weather permitting, you may glimpse the Mackenzie Mountains on the western horizon during the final approach to Whitehorse.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from YEG
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the North Saskatchewan River valley and the city grid of Edmonton during northwestbound climb-out. The river's distinctive meanders are clearly visible from 5,000-10,000 feet, and you'll see the urban sprawl transition to agricultural land north of the city.
Landing at YXY
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Whitehorse area and the Yukon River during descent. You'll see the river's dramatic S-curve through the valley and the city nestled against the surrounding hills, particularly striking during approach from the south.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Edmonton International (YEG) to Whitehorse International (YXY)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Edmonton to Whitehorse. While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is significantly more dramatic and memorable—the Yukon River's S-curve and Whitehorse's valley setting are exceptional. Left-side seats capture the most visually distinctive geography of this route.
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 and the city grid of Edmonton during northwestbound climb-out. The river's distinctive meanders are clearly visible from 5,000-10,000 feet, and you'll see the urban sprawl transition to agricultural land north of the city. Notable sights include: North Saskatchewan River valley, Edmonton city grid and surrounding subdivisions, transition from urban to farmland, Sturgeon County agricultural patchwork.
What can I see when landing at Whitehorse International in Whitehorse?
When landing at Whitehorse International (YXY), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Whitehorse area and the Yukon River during descent. You'll see the river's dramatic S-curve through the valley and the city nestled against the surrounding hills, particularly striking during approach from the south. Notable sights include: Yukon River and its S-curve through the valley, Whitehorse city and surrounding ridges, boreal forest landscape, approach valley terrain.
How long is the flight from Edmonton to Whitehorse?
The flight from Edmonton International (YEG) to Whitehorse International (YXY) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 950 miles (1,528 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Edmonton to Whitehorse flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the boreal forest transition zone of northern Alberta and British Columbia. Notable features include the Hay River drainage system (visible around the 1-hour mark), the transition from agricultural Alberta to dense coniferous forest, scattered lakes and muskeg terrain in the Northwest Territories approach, and the gradual rise in elevation as the aircraft approaches the Yukon plateau. The landscape becomes increasingly remote and forested, with fewer visible settlements after leaving Alberta. Weather permitting, you may glimpse the Mackenzie Mountains on the western horizon during the final approach to Whitehorse.