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AMS destination photo
YYC destination photo

AMSYYC

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is superior for this westbound polar route as it avoids the harsh southern sun glare, providing perfect lighting for viewing the Greenland ice cap and the rugged fjords of Baffin Island.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏝️

Shetland Islands

The rugged, windswept archipelago of northern Scotland appearing shortly after departure.

🏔️

East Greenland Fjords

Stunning jagged peaks and massive glaciers spilling directly into the sea.

❄️

Baffin Island

The stark, beautiful arctic wilderness of the Qikiqtaaluk Region.

🌊

Hudson Bay

The world's largest inland sea, often filled with intricate ice patterns even in early summer.

🌲

Canadian Shield

A vast expanse of ancient rock and millions of small lakes stretching across Manitoba.

🌌

Aurora Borealis

On evening arrivals during winter months, this side offers the best chance to spot the Northern Lights.

Sit on the right for the best indirect lighting. The most spectacular scenery—the Greenland crossing—typically occurs 3 to 4 hours into the flight. Keep your camera ready as the plane enters Canadian airspace, as the transition from sea ice to the lake-strewn Shield is visually fascinating. This side also offers the best chance for nighttime aurora viewing on late-season flights.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

North Sea Transition

Aerial views of offshore wind farms and the deep blue waters departing the Dutch coast.

🧊

Cape Farewell

The southern tip of Greenland, featuring dramatic icebergs drifting into the Atlantic.

🗺️

Labrador Coast

The wild, uninhabited coastline of eastern Canada with deep inlets and rocky shores.

🌾

Canadian Prairies

The iconic 'patchwork quilt' appearance of Saskatchewan's agricultural heartland.

🏙️

Calgary Skyline

On many approach paths, a clear view of the downtown towers and the Bow River.

While this side offers great views of the southern tip of Greenland, the sun will be positioned to the south for the duration of the flight. This can cause significant glare and make photography difficult. Use a polarizing filter if taking photos and be prepared to lower your shade to stay cool during the mid-flight segment.

Top Activities in Calgary
Route Information

Distance: 7,168 km (4,454 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 26 min

Departure: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)

Arrival: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)

Route Type: International

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