National Capital Air Tours with Select Aviation in Gatineau - Ottawa

National Capital Air Tours with Select Aviation in Gatineau

Ottawaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

30 minutes to 1 hour

Fitness Level

No special fitness required; suitable for most adults and children with no mobility issues.

Overview

Take to the skies with Select Aviation in Gatineau for a fresh perspective on Canada’s capital region. These aerial tours showcase the city’s landmarks and natural beauty from above, a must for adventurous visitors.

Details

Gatineau, Québec, sits just across the Ottawa River from Canada’s capital, offering an ideal vantage point for uncovering the architectural and natural landmarks laid out below. Select Aviation’s Ottawa City Tour and National Capital Tour provide a unique way to take in this vibrant urban landscape— from sweeping aerial views over Parliament Hill to the winding Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in Gatineau, Select Aviation leverages the region’s strategic location to offer flights that reveal the city’s grandeur not accessible from the ground.

Flying above the National Capital Region introduces visitors to striking contrasts: the geometric grids of downtown Ottawa’s government buildings and the lush expanses of Gatineau Park’s forests, visible just minutes away. The skyline’s mix of historic stonework and modern glass towers is set alongside natural features like the Gatineau Hills and the Ottawa River’s broad flow. Photographers and first-timers alike will appreciate the fresh perspective these tours provide, turning familiar landmarks into captivating aerial compositions.

Select Aviation stands out by blending the convenience of short, expertly guided flights with local knowledge that highlights hidden details beneath the clouds. This is not merely sightseeing; it’s a dynamic encounter with Canada’s political and cultural heart from overhead—a vantage rarely available without specialized access. Whether passengers seek seasonal color, unique photo opportunities, or an introduction to the geography shaping Canada’s capital area, these tours deliver an efficient, memorable flight experience.

The company’s presence also amplifies Gatineau’s role as a gateway to urban and natural adventure alike. It complements the region’s cycling trails, waterways, and parklands, offering an option for those wishing to combine ground-based exploration with aerial insight. In a destination known for outdoors activities and Canadian heritage, Select Aviation’s tours are a distinctive choice for travelers looking to elevate their visit literally and figuratively.

Adventure Tips

Book in advance

Flights can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Bring a camera with a zoom lens

Capturing detailed shots of landmarks requires good optical zoom from the aircraft.

Dress for the weather

Even short flights can be cool at altitude; layering helps maintain comfort.

Arrive early for check-in

Ensure a smooth boarding process by arriving at the terminal 30 minutes prior to flight time.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The lesser-known Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Healing and Wellness
  • Quiet shores along the Ottawa River accessible by kayak

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles soaring above the river corridors
  • White-tailed deer often spotted along Gatineau Park’s edges

History

Ottawa’s Rideau Canal, seen on these tours, dates back to 1832 and remains the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America.

Conservation

Select Aviation follows strict environmental guidelines to limit noise pollution and minimize fuel use, helping protect the region’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Early morning
Late afternoon (golden hour)
Clear midday skies

Best Viewpoints

  • Over Parliament Hill for iconic government buildings
  • Above Gatineau Park for fall colors
  • Along the winding Rideau Canal

What to Photograph

Cityscape landmarks
Natural river and forest contrasts
Seasonal foliage and wildlife sightings

Recommended Gear

Camera with zoom lens

Essential

Essential for capturing detailed aerial photos of landmarks and landscapes.

Layered clothing

Essential

Necessary to stay comfortable in variable temperatures at altitude.

all specific

Sunglasses

Useful to reduce glare when flying in bright daylight.

all specific

Binoculars

Optional for enhanced distant viewing of ground features during the flight.