The right side wins overall because the takeoff views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Olympic Mountains are more dramatic and visually distinctive than the landing approach. While the landing offers decent mountain views, the takeoff provides the more memorable geography.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the interior of British Columbia, passing over the Cascade Range near the BC-Washington border, then over the Thompson Plateau and its river valleys. The Shuswap Lake region and the transition from coastal mountains to interior plateau are notable midpoint features. As the aircraft approaches Alberta, the Rocky Mountain foothills become increasingly prominent on the southern horizon.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Victoria International (YYJ) to Calgary International (YYC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Victoria to Calgary. The right side wins overall because the takeoff views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Olympic Mountains are more dramatic and visually distinctive than the landing approach. While the landing offers decent mountain views, the takeoff provides the more memorable geography.
What can I see during takeoff from Victoria International in Victoria?
During takeoff from Victoria International (YYJ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains across the water in Washington State during the initial climb. The aircraft typically departs eastbound from YYJ, so the right side faces south toward these dramatic coastal features. Notable sights include: Strait of Juan de Fuca, Olympic Mountains (Washington), Vancouver Island coastline, Gulf Islands archipelago.
What can I see when landing at Calgary International in Calgary?
When landing at Calgary International (YYC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the Canadian Rockies and the approach path over the foothills. Aircraft typically land westbound on YYC's main runways, so the left side faces south and southwest toward the mountain range during descent. Notable sights include: Canadian Rockies (front range), Bow River valley, Calgary city sprawl, foothills transition zone.
How long is the flight from Victoria to Calgary?
The flight from Victoria International (YYJ) to Calgary International (YYC) takes Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Victoria to Calgary flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the interior of British Columbia, passing over the Cascade Range near the BC-Washington border, then over the Thompson Plateau and its river valleys. The Shuswap Lake region and the transition from coastal mountains to interior plateau are notable midpoint features. As the aircraft approaches Alberta, the Rocky Mountain foothills become increasingly prominent on the southern horizon.