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YYC → YQF
Which side of the plane to sit from Calgary International Airport (Calgary) to Red Deer Regional Airport (Red Deer Industrial)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a spectacular and continuous view of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and the rolling foothills that define the Alberta landscape.
Canadian Rockies
Stunning distant views of the snow-capped peaks of Banff and Kananaskis to the west.
The Foothills
The dramatic transition from the flat prairies to the rising elevation of the Rocky Mountain foothills.
Ghost Lake
A prominent glacial-fed reservoir visible as a bright blue patch near the mountain base.
Bow River Valley
Follow the winding path of the Bow River as it flows out from the mountains toward Calgary.
Airdrie Skyline
A clear view of the growing city of Airdrie situated just north of Calgary's city limits.
The left side is superior for mountain photography. Aim for a late afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the Rockies. Since this is a very short, low-altitude flight, keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff as the mountains appear largest during the initial climb.
Agricultural Grids
The iconic 'quarter section' grid system of Alberta's vast and productive farmland.
Highway 2 (QEII)
Follow the busiest corridor in Western Canada, connecting the province's two major urban centers.
Prairie Sloughs
Small seasonal wetlands and ponds that dot the landscape, often reflecting the sky.
Northeast Calgary
Views of the industrial and residential sprawl of Calgary's northeast quadrant during departure.
CrossIron Mills
A massive, recognizable shopping complex located just outside the Calgary city limits.
The right side offers a bird's-eye view of Alberta's 'Golden Highway' corridor. Look for the distinct colors of canola fields (vibrant yellow) in late July. This side is typically better during morning flights to avoid direct sun glare when looking toward the horizon.
Distance: 119 km (74 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 min
Departure: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)
Arrival: YQF (52.18220138549805, -113.8939971923828)
Route Type: Domestic
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