About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Vancouver International (YVR) to Montreal International Dorval (YUL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Vancouver to Montreal. The westbound departure from YVR offers more dramatic and sustained scenery (North Shore Mountains, Strait of Georgia, Vancouver Island), while the landing approach into YUL provides moderate views. Left seats capture the superior takeoff experience, which dominates the early and most memorable portion of this 4.5-hour flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Vancouver International in Vancouver?
During takeoff from Vancouver International (YVR), sit on the Left side for the best views. YVR typically departs westbound (runways 26L/26R) or northbound (runways 08L/08R). Left seats capture the North Shore Mountains immediately after departure, with views of the Strait of Georgia and Vancouver Island to the northwest. Right seats face inland toward the Fraser Valley. Notable sights include: North Shore Mountains (Grouse, Seymour, Cypress peaks), Strait of Georgia, Vancouver Island's northern tip, Howe Sound.
What can I see when landing at Montreal International Dorval in Montreal?
When landing at Montreal International Dorval (YUL), sit on the Right side for the best views. YUL approaches from the west (typically runways 24L/24R or 06L/06R depending on wind). Right seats provide views of the Laurentian Mountains to the north and the Ottawa River valley as the aircraft descends into the Montreal basin. Left seats face south toward the St. Lawrence River and the Monteregian Hills. Notable sights include: Laurentian Mountains (Laurentides), Ottawa River, St. Lawrence River, Montreal urban sprawl and downtown core.
How long is the flight from Vancouver to Montreal?
The flight from Vancouver International (YVR) to Montreal International Dorval (YUL) takes Approximately 4 hours 45 minutes.
What does the Vancouver to Montreal flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Canadian Rockies (visible around 1.5 hours out—the Continental Divide near Banff and Lake Louise), then transitions over the prairies of Alberta and Saskatchewan, the boreal forests of northern Ontario, and finally the Canadian Shield and Laurentian foothills approaching Montreal. The Great Lakes (Superior and Huron) may be visible on clear days during the Ontario portion, roughly 2.5-3 hours into the flight.