Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills on departure, and during the long cruise westward across Ontario and into the Canadian Shield, right-side passengers see the transition from boreal forest to prairie. The approach into Edmonton favors the left, but the departure and majority of the flight path offer superior views on the right.
Flown YOW to YEG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Ottawa to Edmonton is 1,771 miles (2,849 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Canadian Shield for roughly 1.5 hours, passing over vast boreal forest, numerous lakes (particularly visible around the Ontario-Manitoba border), and the transition zone where the Shield gives way to prairie. The Winnipeg area (YWG) lies south of the direct route but may be visible as a distant cluster during cruise. As the aircraft approaches Alberta, the terrain flattens noticeably and forest density decreases. The North Saskatchewan River valley becomes visible approximately 30 minutes before landing, marking the approach to Edmonton.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from YOW
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Ottawa River valley and the Gatineau Hills across the river in Quebec. The aircraft climbs northwest from YOW, so right-side passengers see the river's meandering path and the forested terrain that defines the National Capital Region.
Landing at YEG
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the North Saskatchewan River valley and Edmonton's urban sprawl as the aircraft descends from the northeast. The approach path brings the river and city grid into clear view on the left side during final descent.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) to Edmonton International (YEG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Ottawa to Edmonton. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills on departure, and during the long cruise westward across Ontario and into the Canadian Shield, right-side passengers see the transition from boreal forest to prairie. The approach into Edmonton favors the left, but the departure and majority of the flight path offer superior views on the right.
What can I see during takeoff from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International in Ottawa?
During takeoff from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Ottawa River valley and the Gatineau Hills across the river in Quebec. The aircraft climbs northwest from YOW, so right-side passengers see the river's meandering path and the forested terrain that defines the National Capital Region. Notable sights include: Ottawa River, Gatineau Hills, Parliament Hill area (briefly visible during initial climb), Canadian Shield forest.
What can I see when landing at Edmonton International in Edmonton?
When landing at Edmonton International (YEG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the North Saskatchewan River valley and Edmonton's urban sprawl as the aircraft descends from the northeast. The approach path brings the river and city grid into clear view on the left side during final descent. Notable sights include: North Saskatchewan River, Edmonton city grid and downtown core, Whyte Avenue district, river valley escarpment.
How long is the flight from Ottawa to Edmonton?
The flight from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) to Edmonton International (YEG) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,771 miles (2,849 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Ottawa to Edmonton flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Canadian Shield for roughly 1.5 hours, passing over vast boreal forest, numerous lakes (particularly visible around the Ontario-Manitoba border), and the transition zone where the Shield gives way to prairie. The Winnipeg area (YWG) lies south of the direct route but may be visible as a distant cluster during cruise. As the aircraft approaches Alberta, the terrain flattens noticeably and forest density decreases. The North Saskatchewan River valley becomes visible approximately 30 minutes before landing, marking the approach to Edmonton.