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ALF destination photo
KKN destination photo

ALFKKN

Which side of the plane to sit from Alta Airport (Alta) to Kirkenes Airport (Høybuktmoen) (Kirkenes)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic arctic coastline of Northern Norway, featuring deep fjords, the Barents Sea, and the rugged Porsanger and Varanger peninsulas.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Altafjorden

Dramatic views of the fjord and surrounding steep mountains immediately after takeoff from Alta.

❄️

Porsanger Peninsula

A stark, snow-dusted landscape of high plateaus and narrow valleys characteristic of the high arctic.

🌊

Laksefjorden

One of Finnmark's longest fjords, showcasing deep blue waters against rugged grey cliffs.

⚓

Tanafjorden

A massive fjord system that cuts deep into the land, often dotted with small fishing settlements.

🪨

Varanger Peninsula

The easternmost part of Norway, featuring a unique moon-like landscape formed by ancient rock.

The left side (facing North) is ideal for spotting the Midnight Sun in summer. In winter, this side offers the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis away from the aircraft's glare. For the best views of the coastline, ensure you are seated behind the wing for an unobstructed downward view.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🦌

Finnmarksvidda

Norway's largest mountain plateau, home to thousands of reindeer and vast, desolate tundra.

🛣️

Sennalandet

The famous mountain pass between Alta and Hammerfest, looking like a white desert in winter.

🎣

Tana River

The winding 'Teno' river which forms the border with Finland, known for its world-class salmon fishing.

🇫🇮

Finnish Border fells

Distant views of the rolling hills and fells of Finnish Lapland to the south.

🌲

Pasvik Valley

On final approach to Kirkenes, you can see the northernmost tip of the Siberian Taiga forest.

Choose the right side if you prefer the minimalist beauty of the arctic interior. This side is particularly interesting during the 'Blue Hour' in mid-winter, as the low sun creates long, purple shadows over the snow-covered plateau. It also provides a better view of the Tana River valley as you cross from west to east.

Top Activities in Kirkenes
Route Information

Distance: 251 km (156 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 25 min

Departure: ALF (69.976097106934, 23.371700286865)

Arrival: KKN (69.725799560547, 29.891300201416)

Route Type: Domestic

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