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YYC → FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from Calgary International Airport (Calgary) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views, including the rugged subarctic landscapes of Northern Canada, the majestic ice sheets of Greenland, and the best potential for seeing the Aurora Borealis during the overnight crossing.
Greenland Ice Sheet
Breathtaking views of the world's second-largest ice body, featuring deep crevasses, glaciers, and coastal icebergs.
Aurora Borealis
A high likelihood of spotting the Northern Lights during the dark transatlantic portion of the journey given the northern flight path.
Hudson Bay Shoreline
The desolate and beautiful transition from the Canadian Shield to the vast waters of the Hudson Bay.
Labrador Fjords
Dramatic coastal mountains and deep-cut fjords as the flight leaves the North American landmass.
European Coastline
Clear views of the Dutch and German coastlines, including the Frisian Islands, during the morning descent.
For the best experience, choose a seat well ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. For the Aurora, flights departing Calgary in late autumn or winter offer the best darkness window; keep your cabin area dark and eyes adjusted to the window about 4 hours into the flight.
Canadian Prairies
The intricate 'patchwork quilt' of agricultural lands stretching across Saskatchewan and Manitoba after takeoff.
Atlantic Sunrise
Spectacular sunrise views over the open ocean as the plane approaches the European continent.
Frankfurt Skyline
Often provides a superior view of the 'Mainhattan' skyscrapers and the Commerzbank Tower during the final approach.
Rhine-Main Region
A bird's-eye view of the dense forests and industrial heartland of central Germany before landing.
The right side is the 'sunny side' for the morning arrival in Germany. If you prefer natural light to wake you up, this is the better choice. On the approach into Frankfurt (FRA), the right side typically offers a better view of the city center if the aircraft is landing towards the West (Runway 25).
Distance: 7,528 km (4,678 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 51 min
Departure: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
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