Loading map...
GLA â YYC
Which side of the plane to sit from Glasgow International Airport (Glasgow) to Calgary International Airport (Calgary)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the dramatic Greenland ice cap, the rugged fjords of the Labrador coast, and the stunning island landscapes of the Hebrides shortly after takeoff. It also benefits from better lighting as it faces away from the direct southern sun on this westbound route.
The Outer Hebrides
Rugged Scottish island coastlines and white sand beaches visible shortly after departing Glasgow.
Greenland Ice Sheet
Spectacular views of massive glaciers flowing into the sea and the vast, white interior ice cap.
Torngat Mountains
The ancient, jagged peaks of Northern Labrador, some of the highest mountains in mainland Canada.
Hudson Bay
Depending on the season, you may see massive sheets of sea ice or the deep blue of this inland sea.
Alberta Badlands
The unique, eroded terrain of the Red Deer River valley and Drumheller visible during the descent.
Sit on the right side to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. The highlight is Greenland, which usually appears about 3 to 4 hours into the flight; use your interactive map to time this. In winter months, this side offers the best chance of spotting the Aurora Borealis if the flight is overnight or in very late evening.
North Atlantic Expanse
Deep blue waters of the Atlantic, occasionally dotted with cargo ships on the great circle route.
Cape Farewell
The sharp, mountainous southern tip of Greenland where the Atlantic meets the Labrador Sea.
Saskatchewan Prairies
The iconic 'patchwork quilt' of Canadian agriculture, featuring vast geometric fields of yellow and green.
Calgary Cityscape
A view of the downtown skyline and the Calgary Tower if the aircraft approaches from the east.
The left side faces south, meaning you will likely have direct sun glare for the duration of the flight; keep your window shade partially closed to prevent cabin heat. It is the better side for viewing the southern tip of Greenland if the flight path stays southerly, and offers great sunset colors if arriving in the late afternoon.
Distance: 6,477 km (4,025 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 37 min
Departure: GLA (55.8718986511, -4.43306016922)
Arrival: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.