About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Lester B Pearson International (YYZ) to Ponta Delgada (PDL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Toronto to Ponta Delgada. The left side delivers the more dramatic takeoff experience with Toronto's skyline and Lake Ontario, and while the right side wins on landing approach, the overall balance tips left given that the transatlantic cruise phase offers little to see on either side. The Toronto departure view is the highlight of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Lester B Pearson International in Toronto?
During takeoff from Lester B Pearson International (YYZ), sit on the Left side for the best views. YYZ departures heading east on runway 23/05 or northeast on 15L/33R typically give left-side passengers views over downtown Toronto and Lake Ontario. The left side captures the Toronto skyline including the CN Tower, the waterfront, and the broad expanse of Lake Ontario as the aircraft climbs and banks eastward toward the Atlantic routing. Notable sights include: CN Tower and downtown Toronto skyline, Lake Ontario shoreline, Toronto Islands, Hamilton Harbour to the southwest.
What can I see when landing at Ponta Delgada in Ponta Delgada?
When landing at Ponta Delgada (PDL), sit on the Right side for the best views. PDL sits on the southern coast of São Miguel island. Aircraft typically approach from the northeast or east over the Atlantic and land on runway 12/30. A right-side seat on approach gives views of São Miguel's dramatic volcanic interior — the Sete Cidades caldera and Fogo lake — as well as the green ridgelines dropping to the south coast where Ponta Delgada sits. Notable sights include: Sete Cidades twin caldera lakes, Lagoa do Fogo volcanic crater lake, São Miguel's central ridge, Ponta Delgada waterfront and marina.
How long is the flight from Toronto to Ponta Delgada?
The flight from Lester B Pearson International (YYZ) to Ponta Delgada (PDL) takes Approximately 6.5 to 7.5 hours.
What does the Toronto to Ponta Delgada flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northeast from Toronto over southern Ontario, then crosses the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Newfoundland's Avalon Peninsula near St. John's before heading out over the open North Atlantic. The mid-ocean portion passes well north of the Azores initially before descending toward São Miguel. Passengers may glimpse icebergs or shipping lanes in the North Atlantic at cruise altitude, and on clear days the Newfoundland coastline is visible during the early oceanic segment.