While the Toronto lakefront departure is a nice brief moment, the Rocky Mountain view during the Calgary approach is the flight's signature scenic payoff and lasts longer, making the right side the stronger overall choice.
Flown YYZ to YYC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Toronto to Calgary is 1,671 miles (2,689 km), a flight of about 3 hours 45 minutes.
Boreal forest and lakes of the Canadian Shield near the Ontario-Manitoba border, followed by the flat farmland of the Saskatchewan and Alberta prairies, with the South Saskatchewan River visible as a thin ribbon below.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase

Takeoff from YYZ
LEFTWestbound departures from YYZ typically roll on runway 23/24L, climbing out over Lake Ontario before banking northwest toward the Prairies. Passengers on the left get a brief but clear view of the lake shoreline and the downtown Toronto skyline, including the CN Tower, before the turn.

Landing at YYC
RIGHTCalgary arrivals typically land southbound on runway 17, approaching from the north. During the descent and final turn, the Rocky Mountain front range is visible to the west, which sits on the right side of the aircraft as it lines up southbound.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Lester B Pearson International (YYZ) to Calgary International (YYC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Toronto to Calgary. While the Toronto lakefront departure is a nice brief moment, the Rocky Mountain view during the Calgary approach is the flight's signature scenic payoff and lasts longer, making the right side the stronger overall choice.
What can I see during takeoff from Lester B Pearson International in Toronto?
During takeoff from Lester B Pearson International (YYZ), sit on the Left side for the best views. Westbound departures from YYZ typically roll on runway 23/24L, climbing out over Lake Ontario before banking northwest toward the Prairies. Passengers on the left get a brief but clear view of the lake shoreline and the downtown Toronto skyline, including the CN Tower, before the turn. Notable sights include: Lake Ontario shoreline, downtown Toronto skyline, CN Tower, Toronto Islands.
What can I see when landing at Calgary International in Calgary?
When landing at Calgary International (YYC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Calgary arrivals typically land southbound on runway 17, approaching from the north. During the descent and final turn, the Rocky Mountain front range is visible to the west, which sits on the right side of the aircraft as it lines up southbound. Notable sights include: Rocky Mountain front range foothills, Bow River valley, city of Calgary skyline, Nose Hill Park.
How long is the flight from Toronto to Calgary?
The flight from Lester B Pearson International (YYZ) to Calgary International (YYC) takes about 3 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,671 miles (2,689 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Toronto to Calgary flight path pass over?
Boreal forest and lakes of the Canadian Shield near the Ontario-Manitoba border, followed by the flat farmland of the Saskatchewan and Alberta prairies, with the South Saskatchewan River visible as a thin ribbon below.