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YYC → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Calgary International Airport (Calgary) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more direct view of the spectacular red rock formations of the American Southwest and a prime angle of the San Diego skyline during the final approach.
Search flights from YYC to SAN
Canadian Rockies
Dramatic aerial views of snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys immediately following takeoff from YYC.
Great Salt Lake
The stark contrast of the white salt flats and deep blue water as you traverse Utah.
Bryce Canyon & Zion
Distant but visible intricate red rock hoodoos and deep sandstone canyons of Southern Utah.
Las Vegas Strip
A clear view of the dense cluster of mega-resorts and the Sphere as the flight path passes eastern Nevada.
Downtown San Diego
One of the most famous landings in aviation, flying incredibly low past the skyscrapers of the city center.
Sit behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the Utah desert. For the descent into SAN, have your camera ready about 10 minutes before landing; the plane passes very close to the skyscrapers of downtown. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, highlighting the colors of the desert.
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Glacier National Park
Rugged alpine scenery and pristine lakes along the Montana-Canada border during the first hour.
Craters of the Moon
The unique, dark volcanic landscapes of Idaho's lava fields are often visible to the west.
Sierra Nevada Range
On clear days, the high peaks of eastern California, including Mt. Whitney, can be seen in the distance.
Mojave Desert
The vast, desolate beauty of the California high desert featuring unique geometric mining patterns.
Point Loma & Harbor
As the plane touches down, you will see the Pacific Ocean, Point Loma peninsula, and San Diego Bay.
Choose the right side for afternoon or sunset flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. This side offers better views of the Pacific coastline and San Diego harbor during the final seconds of the flight. Watch for the Salton Sea shortly before the descent begins.
Book Hotels in San DiegoDistance: 2,060 km (1,280 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 45 min
Departure: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: International
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