Loading map...
YYC β YKA
Which side of the plane to sit from Calgary International Airport (Calgary) to Kamloops Airport (Kamloops)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers a more iconic sequence of landmarks including the heart of Banff National Park, the legendary Rogers Pass, and the sprawling Shuswap Lake system before descending into the desert-like Thompson Valley.
Banff & Lake Louise
Pass directly over or near the famous peaks of the Bow Valley and the Victoria Glacier area.
Rogers Pass
A spectacular view of the mountain pass that serves as the high point of the Trans-Canada Highway.
Glacier National Park
Glacial fields and massive rock walls of the Selkirk Mountains dominate the view.
Shuswap Lake
The distinctive 'H' shape of this massive lake is clearly visible as the terrain begins to flatten.
Thompson River Valley
The dramatic shift from lush alpine forests to the golden, semi-arid hills of the Kamloops area.
The right side is superior for morning flights to avoid sun glare. Watch for the dramatic transition from the high Selkirks to the dry Thompson Plateau. Keep your camera ready as you pass over Shuswap Lake, as the descent into YKA begins shortly after.
Mount Assiniboine
Often called the Matterhorn of the Rockies, this distinctive pyramid peak is visible south of the flight path.
Kootenay National Park
Aerial views of the deep valleys and high alpine passes of the southern Kootenays.
Upper Arrow Lake
A stunning view of this long, narrow lake sandwiched between the Selkirk and Monashee mountains.
The Monashees
A sequence of jagged, snow-capped peaks known for deep winter snowpacks.
South Kamloops
A great view of the city layout and the confluence of the North and South Thompson Rivers on approach.
Sit on the left side during evening flights to see the sunset reflecting off the Arrow Lakes. Look south early in the flight for Mount Assiniboine's sharp profile. Seasonal snow cover is most dramatic from December through April.
Distance: 453 km (281 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 45 min
Departure: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)
Arrival: YKA (50.7022018433, -120.444000244)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.