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VRA → YYC
Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Gualberto Gomez International Airport (Varadero) to Calgary International Airport (Calgary)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the turquoise waters of the Caribbean upon departure and a breathtaking view of the Rocky Mountains silhouette during the descent into Calgary.
Varadero Peninsula
Stunning aerial views of the narrow Hicacos Peninsula and its white sand beaches immediately after takeoff.
Mississippi Delta
The intricate, bird-foot shaped sediment patterns where the Mississippi River meets the Gulf of Mexico.
Great Plains Grids
Vast, colorful geometric crop patterns across the American Midwest and the Canadian Prairies.
Badlands Terrain
The rugged, eroded landscapes of the northern plains, featuring deep canyons and striped rock formations.
The Rocky Mountains
As the flight approaches Calgary from the southeast, the jagged peaks of the Rockies dominate the western horizon.
For late afternoon flights, the left side is the 'sunset side,' offering dramatic golden hour views over the plains. During the final 30 minutes of the flight, keep your camera ready for the contrast between the flat prairies and the rising mountain range to the west. Seat away from the wing for unobstructed views of the Mississippi River crossing.
Florida Everglades
The vast, emerald-green wetlands of South Florida visible shortly after crossing the Florida Straits.
Midwestern Cities
Clear views of major urban hubs like St. Louis or Chicago, depending on the specific air traffic control routing.
Missouri River
The winding, serpentine path of the Missouri River as it carves through the central United States.
Saskatchewan Basin
The wide-open 'Big Sky' vistas and massive grain elevators dotting the southern Canadian landscape.
Calgary Skyline
Depending on the wind direction and runway approach, the right side often gets a direct view of downtown Calgary and the Bow River.
Choose the right side on morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is excellent for spotting the dense network of lakes in central Canada. If the plane lands towards the south at YYC, the right side provides an excellent view of the Calgary Tower and the Saddledome during the final turn.
Distance: 4,191 km (2,604 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 56 min
Departure: VRA (23.03440093994141, -81.435302734375)
Arrival: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)
Route Type: International
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