The takeoff from Montreal offers more visually distinctive natural landmarks (St. Lawrence River and Laurentian Mountains) compared to the landing approach into Cleveland, which, while scenic, features more industrial and urban development. Left seats capture the superior scenery during the longer, more interesting portion of the flight.
Flown YUL to CLE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Montreal to Cleveland is 494 miles (794 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Finger Lakes region of New York (Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake visible as long, narrow water bodies), Appalachian plateau terrain with mixed forest and agricultural land, Pennsylvania-Ohio border region with rolling forested hills
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from YUL
LEFTLeft side offers views of the St. Lawrence River and the Laurentian Mountains as the aircraft climbs southwest out of Montreal. Right side faces inland terrain with fewer distinctive landmarks during initial climb.
Landing at CLE
RIGHTRight side provides views of Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River valley as the aircraft descends toward Cleveland from the northeast. The lake's broad expanse and the river's industrial corridor are distinctive visual markers for approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Montreal International Dorval (YUL) to Cleveland Hopkins International (CLE)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Montreal to Cleveland. The takeoff from Montreal offers more visually distinctive natural landmarks (St. Lawrence River and Laurentian Mountains) compared to the landing approach into Cleveland, which, while scenic, features more industrial and urban development. Left seats capture the superior scenery during the longer, more interesting portion of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Montreal International Dorval in Montreal?
During takeoff from Montreal International Dorval (YUL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the St. Lawrence River and the Laurentian Mountains as the aircraft climbs southwest out of Montreal. Right side faces inland terrain with fewer distinctive landmarks during initial climb. Notable sights include: St. Lawrence River, Laurentian Mountains (Laurentides), Montreal urban sprawl, Lake of Two Mountains.
What can I see when landing at Cleveland Hopkins International in Cleveland?
When landing at Cleveland Hopkins International (CLE), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River valley as the aircraft descends toward Cleveland from the northeast. The lake's broad expanse and the river's industrial corridor are distinctive visual markers for approach. Notable sights include: Lake Erie, Cuyahoga River, Cleveland downtown skyline, Appalachian foothills.
How long is the flight from Montreal to Cleveland?
The flight from Montreal International Dorval (YUL) to Cleveland Hopkins International (CLE) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 494 miles (794 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Montreal to Cleveland flight path pass over?
Finger Lakes region of New York (Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake visible as long, narrow water bodies), Appalachian plateau terrain with mixed forest and agricultural land, Pennsylvania-Ohio border region with rolling forested hills