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YYC â GLA
Which side of the plane to sit from Calgary International Airport (Calgary) to Glasgow International Airport (Glasgow)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is the clear winner for this northern route, offering prime viewing of the High Arctic's rugged terrain and providing the only opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis during the night portion of the flight.
Hudson Bay Ice
Aerial views of the massive frozen expanse and intricate ice floes of northern Manitoba and the bay.
Baffin Island
Dramatic jagged peaks, deep fjords, and massive glaciers of one of the world's most remote wildernesses.
Greenland Ice Sheet
An endless white horizon of the central ice cap, revealing the sheer scale of the Arctic environment.
Aurora Borealis
The north-facing side provides the best chance to see the Northern Lights during the dark transatlantic crossing.
Northern Highlands
The approach into Glasgow often showcases the rugged mountains and glens of the Scottish Highlands.
Book a window seat on the left for night flights to maximize your chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis. Bring a dark blanket to cover your head and the window to block cabin light reflections for the best photos of the stars and northern lights. This side also stays in the shade longer, providing more consistent lighting for photography of the Arctic ice.
Canadian Prairies
Geometric patterns of agricultural lands as you depart Calgary heading northeast over Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Cape Farewell
The southern tip of Greenland featuring spectacular coastal fjords and massive icebergs floating in the sea.
Atlantic Sunrise
Experience a rapid and vibrant sunrise over the North Atlantic as you fly east toward the United Kingdom.
Inner Hebrides
Views of the Isle of Mull, Jura, and Islay as the aircraft descends toward the Scottish coast.
Loch Lomond
Depending on the landing pattern, you may see the Trossachs National Park and the 'Queen of Scottish Lochs'.
The right side is ideal for morning arrivals into Glasgow, offering a spectacular sunrise over the ocean. As you approach Scotland, keep a close watch for the southern tip of Greenland; it often features dramatic icebergs that are easier to spot from this side. Be aware that the rising sun can be very bright, so high-quality sunglasses are recommended for the final few hours of the flight.
Distance: 6,477 km (4,025 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 37 min
Departure: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)
Arrival: GLA (55.8718986511, -4.43306016922)
Route Type: International
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