While takeoff favors the right for St. Lawrence River views, the landing approach over the Andes and Bogota's dramatic high-altitude plateau is far more visually striking and geographically significant. Left side captures the approach descent through the Cordillera Oriental, which is the dominant feature of this route's second half.
Flown YUL to BOG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Montreal to Bogota is 2,817 miles (4,533 km), a flight of about 5 hours.
The flight path crosses the Caribbean coast of Colombia (visible around 2.5 hours into flight), then descends over the Magdalena River valley and western slopes of the Cordillera Oriental. The Andes' western range (Cordillera Occidental) remains to the left/west throughout the approach. The terrain transitions from sea-level Caribbean lowlands to high-altitude plateau over roughly 200 miles of climbing terrain.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from YUL
RIGHTMontreal typically departs eastbound (Runway 06L/06R or 24L/24R depending on wind). Right-side seats offer views of the St. Lawrence River valley and the Laurentian Mountains to the north as you climb out. Left side faces inland toward less dramatic terrain.
Landing at BOG
LEFTBogota's Eldorado International (El Dorado) typically uses Runway 13L/13R or 01L/01R. Approach vectors usually bring aircraft from the north or northeast, descending over the Cordillera Oriental (Eastern Range of the Colombian Andes). Left-side seats face the dramatic mountain terrain and the high plateau where Bogota sits.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Montreal International Dorval (YUL) to Eldorado International (BOG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Montreal to Bogota. While takeoff favors the right for St. Lawrence River views, the landing approach over the Andes and Bogota's dramatic high-altitude plateau is far more visually striking and geographically significant. Left side captures the approach descent through the Cordillera Oriental, which is the dominant feature of this route's second half.
What can I see during takeoff from Montreal International Dorval in Montreal?
During takeoff from Montreal International Dorval (YUL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Montreal typically departs eastbound (Runway 06L/06R or 24L/24R depending on wind). Right-side seats offer views of the St. Lawrence River valley and the Laurentian Mountains to the north as you climb out. Left side faces inland toward less dramatic terrain. Notable sights include: St. Lawrence River (flowing southeast below), Laurentian Mountains (northern horizon), Montreal urban sprawl (receding westward), Île Perrot (visible in river to the west).
What can I see when landing at Eldorado International in Bogota?
When landing at Eldorado International (BOG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Bogota's Eldorado International (El Dorado) typically uses Runway 13L/13R or 01L/01R. Approach vectors usually bring aircraft from the north or northeast, descending over the Cordillera Oriental (Eastern Range of the Colombian Andes). Left-side seats face the dramatic mountain terrain and the high plateau where Bogota sits. Notable sights include: Cordillera Oriental peaks (3,000+ meters, snow-capped in winter), Bogota's high plateau (2,640 meters elevation, visible as urban sprawl), Río Magdalena valley (to the west, lower elevation), Monserrate peak (distinctive landmark east of the city).
How long is the flight from Montreal to Bogota?
The flight from Montreal International Dorval (YUL) to Eldorado International (BOG) takes about 5 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 2,817 miles (4,533 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Montreal to Bogota flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Caribbean coast of Colombia (visible around 2.5 hours into flight), then descends over the Magdalena River valley and western slopes of the Cordillera Oriental. The Andes' western range (Cordillera Occidental) remains to the left/west throughout the approach. The terrain transitions from sea-level Caribbean lowlands to high-altitude plateau over roughly 200 miles of climbing terrain.