The takeoff views of the Bay of Fundy and its dramatic coastal geography are more visually distinctive and geologically striking than the landing approach over Lake Ontario and Toronto's urban landscape. The Fundy estuary and rocky shoreline offer more natural scenic variety.
Flown YSJ to YYZ? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
St. John to Toronto is 686 miles (1,103 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Maritime provinces and transitions over Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, with views of the Appalachian foothills, numerous river valleys, and the transition from coastal terrain to inland forests. The Minas Basin (eastern arm of the Bay of Fundy) may be visible to the south during climb-out. As the flight progresses westward, the terrain gradually flattens and becomes more forested before reaching the Great Lakes region.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from YSJ
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Bay of Fundy and the Saint John River estuary during initial climb. The Fundy coastline with its dramatic tidal flats and rocky shores is distinctive and visible within the first 10–15 minutes of flight.

Landing at YYZ
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of Lake Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area during descent. The lake's vast expanse and the urban sprawl of Toronto are prominent and visually striking on approach from the east.
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 Saint John (YSJ) to Lester B Pearson International (YYZ)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from St. John to Toronto. The takeoff views of the Bay of Fundy and its dramatic coastal geography are more visually distinctive and geologically striking than the landing approach over Lake Ontario and Toronto's urban landscape. The Fundy estuary and rocky shoreline offer more natural scenic variety.
What can I see during takeoff from Saint John in St. John?
During takeoff from Saint John (YSJ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Bay of Fundy and the Saint John River estuary during initial climb. The Fundy coastline with its dramatic tidal flats and rocky shores is distinctive and visible within the first 10–15 minutes of flight. Notable sights include: Bay of Fundy, Saint John River estuary, Reversing Falls Rapids area, Fundy coastal cliffs.
What can I see when landing at Lester B Pearson International in Toronto?
When landing at Lester B Pearson International (YYZ), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of Lake Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area during descent. The lake's vast expanse and the urban sprawl of Toronto are prominent and visually striking on approach from the east. Notable sights include: Lake Ontario, Toronto skyline and downtown core, Scarborough Bluffs, Toronto Islands.
How long is the flight from St. John to Toronto?
The flight from Saint John (YSJ) to Lester B Pearson International (YYZ) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 686 miles (1,103 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the St. John to Toronto flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Maritime provinces and transitions over Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, with views of the Appalachian foothills, numerous river valleys, and the transition from coastal terrain to inland forests. The Minas Basin (eastern arm of the Bay of Fundy) may be visible to the south during climb-out. As the flight progresses westward, the terrain gradually flattens and becomes more forested before reaching the Great Lakes region.