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AMS → HAM
Which side of the plane to sit from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam) to Hamburg Airport (Hamburg)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a scenic overview of the Dutch coastline, the massive IJsselmeer, and the unique UNESCO-protected Wadden Sea tidal flats during the journey across Northern Europe.
IJsselmeer and Polders
Look down shortly after takeoff to see the reclaimed land of Flevoland and the vast expanse of the IJsselmeer lake.
Wadden Sea Coastline
Enjoy the intricate patterns of sandbanks and tidal channels along the northern coast of the Netherlands and Germany.
Port of Hamburg
As you descend towards Hamburg, the massive container terminals and industrial maritime infrastructure of the Elbe river come into view.
Airbus Factory
Just before landing, look for the massive Airbus Finkenwerder facility located on the banks of the Elbe south of the airport.
Choose a window seat on the left for the best chance to see the Frisian Islands in the distance. Morning flights are ideal as the sun remains to the south, reducing glare and providing crisp lighting for photos of the tidal flats. Watch for the 'Afsluitdijk' causeway shortly after departing Amsterdam.
Hoge Veluwe
A view of the dense forests and heathlands of one of the Netherlands' most significant national parks.
Bremen Cityscape
Depending on the specific airway, you may see the city of Bremen and its winding Weser river to the south.
Lower Saxony Lowlands
The patchwork of German agricultural fields and small villages provides a classic European countryside view.
Alster Lakes
On the final approach to Hamburg Airport, you might catch a glimpse of the Inner and Outer Alster lakes in the city center.
The right side is best during late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the horizon. If the plane approaches Hamburg from the east (Runway 23), this side offers a better view of the northern city suburbs. Keep an eye out for the Elbe river winding through the countryside before arrival.
Distance: 379 km (235 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Arrival: HAM (53.630401611328, 9.988229751586902)
Route Type: International
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