While you are probably familiar with the letters YOW, the capital has a second somewhat secret airport. We are lucky enough to have an aviation museum which, on top of displaying planes across many eras, also offers opportunities for you to ride them. The fleet of small aircraft offers scenic views of Ottawa and, while intimidating to many, a more engaging flying experience. I have already flown in the biplane and helicopter, so this weekend, I decided to finish the triad trial by flier and went on the museum's Cessna Parliament Tour.

I arrived on a sunny Saturday at the Museum of Aviation with a friend of mine. It was perfect weather for a flight. We walked through the museum, seeing the plethora of vintage aircraft and a cadets graduation ceremony along the way, before arriving at the tarmac. There, we met our pilot and boarded the back of the small airplane. Within 30 seconds, we were rolling on the runway and taking off.

Immediately, we were fully turned towards our windows. On my side, I could see abandoned islands on the Gatineau side of the river, while my friend pointed out horses from the RCMP stables. As we ascended, we looked over Rockcliffe Park and pointed out places like the yacht club, 24 Sussex and Rideau hall, all visible at the same time. I also enjoyed the colorful houses in Gatineau. After a few minutes, we were flying over downtown.

The altitude of the flight is perfect, since you can see many landmarks simultaneously while still seeing individual details. I could see Parliament Hill, the University and even Lansdowne Park at the same time! Our pilot circled around downtown, giving us time to fully savor the experience. I loved whenever the plane would tilt during the turns and I could see what was directly below me.

As we headed back, I saw my school and house, something that most people who live in Ottawa should be able to see on the extensive route of the flight. Seeing a place so familiar from a totally different angle was definitely a highlight. Finally, we had a smooth landing back at the museum, now having completed this tour on all aircraft available.

If you too want to see Ottawa and Gatineau from the best view possible, check out the Museum of Aviation. The Cessna tour costs $45 or $55 per person, depending on if it's 2 or 3 passengers. On top of the year-round Cessna tour, you can also ride in a helicopter or vintage biplane from May through October. For more information, click here.

David (15) and his friend received a free flight but all views are his own.