The right side offers sustained mountain drama from the Canadian Rockies at departure through the Great Basin ranges at cruise, outweighing the brief but striking downtown view on landing.
Flown YYC to SAN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Calgary to San Diego is 1,280 miles (2,061 km), a flight of about 2 hours 50 minutes.
Route crosses the northern Rockies of Montana, the Great Salt Lake basin of Utah, and the arid ranges of Nevada before descending into Southern California.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from YYC
RIGHTDeparting YYC southbound, the Canadian Rockies rise immediately to the west, giving right-side passengers a dramatic wall of snow-capped peaks as the aircraft climbs south along the foothills.
Landing at SAN
LEFTOn the classic SAN approach over Mission Valley, the aircraft banks slightly and passengers on the left get a close, iconic view of downtown San Diego's skyline and the sparkling bay just before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Calgary International (YYC) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Calgary to San Diego. The right side offers sustained mountain drama from the Canadian Rockies at departure through the Great Basin ranges at cruise, outweighing the brief but striking downtown view on landing.
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. Departing YYC southbound, the Canadian Rockies rise immediately to the west, giving right-side passengers a dramatic wall of snow-capped peaks as the aircraft climbs south along the foothills. Notable sights include: Canadian Rockies foothills, Bow River valley, Kananaskis peaks.
What can I see when landing at San Diego International Lindbergh Fld in San Diego?
When landing at San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN), sit on the Left side for the best views. On the classic SAN approach over Mission Valley, the aircraft banks slightly and passengers on the left get a close, iconic view of downtown San Diego's skyline and the sparkling bay just before touchdown. Notable sights include: Downtown San Diego skyline, San Diego Bay, Coronado Bridge, Balboa Park.
How long is the flight from Calgary to San Diego?
The flight from Calgary International (YYC) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) takes about 2 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,280 miles (2,061 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Calgary to San Diego flight path pass over?
Route crosses the northern Rockies of Montana, the Great Salt Lake basin of Utah, and the arid ranges of Nevada before descending into Southern California.