The outbound western view of the Rocky Mountains is more visually dramatic and geographically distinctive than the landing approach. While London's urban features are interesting, the mountain scenery during departure is the flight's most memorable scenic highlight.
Flown YYC to LCY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Calgary to London is 4,371 miles (7,034 km), a flight of about 9 hours.
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic, passing over or near Greenland's eastern coast (if taking a northern polar route) or over the Atlantic Ocean proper (if taking a more southerly great-circle route). Over the Atlantic, passengers may see the Labrador coast and Newfoundland during the initial westbound leg from Calgary's perspective, though most of the mid-Atlantic crossing offers only open ocean. As the flight approaches Europe, the Scottish Highlands and Irish coastline become visible before descent into London airspace. The actual routing depends on weather and air traffic control, but the Atlantic crossing itself offers limited scenic landmarks—primarily open water with occasional cloud formations.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from YYC
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains during the initial climb-out. Calgary sits on the eastern plains, and aircraft typically depart westbound, giving right-side passengers a direct view of the Front Ranges as they gain altitude.
Landing at LCY
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Thames River, London's urban landscape, and the approach corridor over southern England. Aircraft descending to London City typically approach from the east or northeast, making left-side seats ideal for viewing the river's distinctive meanders through central London.
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 Calgary International (YYC) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Calgary to London. The outbound western view of the Rocky Mountains is more visually dramatic and geographically distinctive than the landing approach. While London's urban features are interesting, the mountain scenery during departure is the flight's most memorable scenic highlight.
What can I see during takeoff from Calgary International in Calgary?
During takeoff from Calgary International (YYC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains during the initial climb-out. Calgary sits on the eastern plains, and aircraft typically depart westbound, giving right-side passengers a direct view of the Front Ranges as they gain altitude. Notable sights include: Canadian Rocky Mountains (Front Ranges), Bow River valley, Foothills west of Calgary, Banff National Park peaks (distant).
What can I see when landing at City in London?
When landing at City (LCY), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Thames River, London's urban landscape, and the approach corridor over southern England. Aircraft descending to London City typically approach from the east or northeast, making left-side seats ideal for viewing the river's distinctive meanders through central London. Notable sights include: Thames River (central London meanders), City of London financial district, Tower Bridge area, Greenwich Peninsula and O2 Arena.
How long is the flight from Calgary to London?
The flight from Calgary International (YYC) to City (LCY) takes about 9 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 4,371 miles (7,034 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Calgary to London flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic, passing over or near Greenland's eastern coast (if taking a northern polar route) or over the Atlantic Ocean proper (if taking a more southerly great-circle route). Over the Atlantic, passengers may see the Labrador coast and Newfoundland during the initial westbound leg from Calgary's perspective, though most of the mid-Atlantic crossing offers only open ocean. As the flight approaches Europe, the Scottish Highlands and Irish coastline become visible before descent into London airspace. The actual routing depends on weather and air traffic control, but the Atlantic crossing itself offers limited scenic landmarks—primarily open water with occasional cloud formations.