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YXH → YYC
Which side of the plane to sit from Medicine Hat Airport (Medicine Hat) to Calgary International Airport (Calgary)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the sprawling South Saskatchewan River valley upon departure and an iconic silhouette of the Canadian Rockies against the western horizon as you approach Calgary.
South Saskatchewan River
A winding river valley that carves through the flat prairie landscape immediately after takeoff from Medicine Hat.
Canadian Rockies Horizon
On clear days, the distant jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains create a stunning backdrop to the west.
Calgary Downtown Skyline
Superior views of the Calgary Tower and the dense cluster of skyscrapers when landing on runways 35L or 35R.
Bow Island Hub
The heart of Alberta's pulse crop industry, visible as a cluster of silos and vibrant green fields.
Bow River Crossing
The final descent often crosses the turquoise waters of the Bow River as it winds through Calgary's southern suburbs.
Choose a morning flight to have the sun at your back, which perfectly illuminates the mountain range to the west. In winter, the snow-capped peaks are significantly more prominent. Sit behind the wing on a Dash 8 for unobstructed views of the ground.
Irrigation Circles
Perfectly circular green patterns of pivot irrigation that define the agricultural technology of Southern Alberta.
Lake Newell
One of the province's largest man-made reservoirs, appearing as a massive blue oasis near the town of Brooks.
Prairie Coulees
Deep, eroded gullies and badland-style terrain that reveal the ancient geological layers of the prairie.
CP Rail Mainline
The historic transcontinental railway line can be traced snaking across the flat terrain towards the horizon.
The right side is best for those interested in the 'big sky' experience and the intricate geometric patterns of modern farming. Keep an eye out for Lake Newell roughly mid-flight, which is a major landmark for pilots and passengers alike.
Distance: 263 km (163 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 26 min
Departure: YXH (50.01890182495117, -110.72100067138672)
Arrival: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)
Route Type: Domestic
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