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ABZ destination photo
LSI destination photo

ABZLSI

Which side of the plane to sit from Aberdeen Dyce Airport (Aberdeen) to Sumburgh Airport (Sumburgh)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the Scottish coastline, the remote and iconic Fair Isle, and the dramatic western cliffs of the Shetland Mainland during the descent into Sumburgh.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Aberdeen Coastline

View the 'Silver City' and its sandy beach stretching north toward the Ythan Estuary immediately after takeoff.

🏗️

Kinnaird Head

The prominent headland at Fraserburgh, featuring the historic lighthouse built into a 16th-century castle.

🏝️

Fair Isle

Located halfway between Orkney and Shetland, this remote island is clearly visible as a solitary green jewel in the North Sea.

⛰️

Fitful Head

Stunning 280-meter high cliffs on the southern tip of Shetland that provide a dramatic backdrop during the final approach.

Sit on the left for the best chance of spotting Fair Isle approximately 25-30 minutes into the flight. For the most immersive experience, select a seat ahead of the wing on the smaller turboprop aircraft typically used for this route to ensure an unobstructed view of the rugged Shetland coastline during descent.

Right Side Highlights
6.2
🌊

North Sea Vistas

Expansive views of the deep blue North Sea, frequently dotted with oil industry supply vessels and tankers.

🕯️

Sumburgh Head

The iconic lighthouse perched on a 100-meter cliff, famous for its massive puffin colonies during the summer months.

🏛️

Jarlshof Prehistoric Site

A complex archaeological site containing remains from the Neolithic to the 1600s, visible just seconds before touchdown.

The right side is ideal for capturing the Sumburgh Head Lighthouse and the Jarlshof ruins on final approach. If the flight arrives from the south, this side also offers a better view of the offshore oil rigs and the eastern maritime corridor. Afternoon flights on this side may experience some glare from the sun.

Top Activities in Sumburgh
Route Information

Distance: 302 km (188 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 30 min

Departure: ABZ (57.20190048217773, -2.1977798938751216)

Arrival: LSI (59.87889862060547, -1.295560002326965)

Route Type: Domestic

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