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YYC â AMS
Which side of the plane to sit from Calgary International Airport (Calgary) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the premier choice for this northern transatlantic route, offering the highest probability of witnessing the Aurora Borealis during the night and better angles for the dramatic glacial landscapes of central Greenland and the Icelandic coast.
Aurora Borealis
Optimal viewing of the Northern Lights during the dark hours over the North Atlantic and Canadian Arctic.
Hudson Bay
Aerial views of the massive inland sea and the rugged tundra of Northern Manitoba and Nunavut.
Greenland Ice Sheet
Spectacular vistas of the vast, high-altitude ice cap and deep glacial crevasses.
Iceland
The volcanic peaks and jagged northern coastline are often visible depending on the specific flight path.
North Sea
Concentrated clusters of offshore wind farms and shipping lanes approaching the European continent.
For the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis, fly during the winter months (September to March) and keep your window shade open during the middle of the flight. Use a coat or blanket to block cabin light reflection on the glass. Ensure you are seated behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the horizon.
Mid-Atlantic Sunrise
A stunning high-altitude sunrise as the aircraft transitions from night to day approaching Europe.
Southern Greenland
Views of the intricate fjords and floating icebergs around Cape Farewell.
Scottish Highlands
The green rolling hills and misty lochs of Scotland are often visible during the morning descent.
English Channel
One of the world's busiest maritime passages, filled with cargo ships and tankers.
Dutch Polders
The iconic geometric reclaimed land and canal networks of the Netherlands during final approach.
The right side is ideal for travelers who enjoy watching the sunrise over the horizon. As you approach Amsterdam, the right side often provides a clearer view of the Dutch coastline and the dense urban layout of the Randstad area. Seasonal light changes mean the sunrise can happen quite early in summer, so set an alarm if you want to catch it.
Distance: 7,168 km (4,454 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 26 min
Departure: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)
Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Route Type: International
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