About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) to City Centre (YTZ)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Ottawa to Toronto. While takeoff favors the right for Ottawa views, the landing approach into YTZ is the dominant visual experience on this short route, and left-side seats deliver superior views of Lake Ontario, the Toronto Islands, and the iconic downtown skyline during descent.
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 capture the Rideau River and downtown Ottawa's Parliament Hill area during the initial climb. YOW typically departs eastbound on Runway 04 or westbound on Runway 22; eastbound departures (more common) bank right and provide excellent views of the city core and the river system. Notable sights include: Parliament Hill and downtown Ottawa skyline, Rideau River winding through the city, Gatineau across the river in Quebec, Canadian Shield terrain to the northeast.
What can I see when landing at City Centre in Toronto?
When landing at City Centre (YTZ), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of Lake Ontario's western shoreline and Toronto's waterfront during descent. YTZ (Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport) sits on the Toronto Islands; approaches typically come from the west over Lake Ontario, and left-side seats face the city skyline and harbor. Notable sights include: Lake Ontario's blue expanse, Toronto Islands and the harbor, downtown Toronto skyline with CN Tower, the Scarborough Bluffs on the far eastern shore.
How long is the flight from Ottawa to Toronto?
The flight from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) to City Centre (YTZ) takes Approximately 45 minutes.
What does the Ottawa to Toronto flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Greater Toronto Area's northern suburbs and the Oak Ridges Moraine. Between Ottawa and Toronto, you'll pass over the agricultural lands and lakes of south-central Ontario, including visible sections of the Kawartha Lakes region to the northeast of the direct route. The terrain transitions from Canadian Shield forest (north of Ottawa) through increasingly developed suburban areas and farmland as you approach the Greater Toronto Area.