While takeoff favors the right on typical westbound departures, the landing approach on left seats provides more dramatic and sustained views of the North Shore Mountains and Vancouver's geography. The approach descent offers better sightlines than the initial climb-out.
Flown YYJ to YVR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Victoria to Vancouver is 39 miles (63 km), a flight of about 30 minutes.
The flight crosses the Strait of Georgia at roughly 15,000-20,000 feet. The midpoint offers views of the Gulf Islands (Hornby Island, Denman Island, and others) scattered across the strait, with Vancouver Island's northern coast visible to the left and the Lower Mainland's suburban edge to the right. The Strait narrows as you approach the mainland, with Texada Island visible on the left side of the route. Clear-air visibility typically allows sightlines of 40+ miles, making the entire crossing visually engaging.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from YYJ
RIGHTYYJ typically departs runway 09 (westbound) or 27 (eastbound). Right-side seats on a westbound departure offer immediate views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains across the water in Washington State. Eastbound departures favor left seats, but westbound is more common for northbound traffic to YVR.
Landing at YVR
LEFTYVR typically uses runways 08L/08R (westbound) or 26L/26R (eastbound). Approaching from the south, aircraft descend over the Strait of Georgia. Left-side seats provide superior views of the North Shore mountains (Coast Range), Burrard Inlet, and downtown Vancouver's skyline during final approach, especially on westbound runways.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Victoria International (YYJ) to Vancouver International (YVR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Victoria to Vancouver. While takeoff favors the right on typical westbound departures, the landing approach on left seats provides more dramatic and sustained views of the North Shore Mountains and Vancouver's geography. The approach descent offers better sightlines than the initial climb-out.
What can I see during takeoff from Victoria International in Victoria?
During takeoff from Victoria International (YYJ), sit on the Right side for the best views. YYJ typically departs runway 09 (westbound) or 27 (eastbound). Right-side seats on a westbound departure offer immediate views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains across the water in Washington State. Eastbound departures favor left seats, but westbound is more common for northbound traffic to YVR. Notable sights include: Strait of Juan de Fuca, Olympic Mountains (Washington), Saanich Peninsula to the north, Gulf Islands scattered across the water.
What can I see when landing at Vancouver International in Vancouver?
When landing at Vancouver International (YVR), sit on the Left side for the best views. YVR typically uses runways 08L/08R (westbound) or 26L/26R (eastbound). Approaching from the south, aircraft descend over the Strait of Georgia. Left-side seats provide superior views of the North Shore mountains (Coast Range), Burrard Inlet, and downtown Vancouver's skyline during final approach, especially on westbound runways. Notable sights include: North Shore Mountains (Coast Range), Burrard Inlet, Downtown Vancouver skyline, Vancouver Island (distant southern shore).
How long is the flight from Victoria to Vancouver?
The flight from Victoria International (YYJ) to Vancouver International (YVR) takes about 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 39 miles (63 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Victoria to Vancouver flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Strait of Georgia at roughly 15,000-20,000 feet. The midpoint offers views of the Gulf Islands (Hornby Island, Denman Island, and others) scattered across the strait, with Vancouver Island's northern coast visible to the left and the Lower Mainland's suburban edge to the right. The Strait narrows as you approach the mainland, with Texada Island visible on the left side of the route. Clear-air visibility typically allows sightlines of 40+ miles, making the entire crossing visually engaging.