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BSL destination photo
HAM destination photo

BSLHAM

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of Germany's diverse topography, including the dense Black Forest upon departure and the prominent Harz Mountains mid-flight, followed by an iconic view of Hamburg's Alster lakes during the landing pattern.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🌲

The Black Forest

Expansive views of the dark, dense evergreen canopy stretching across southwestern Germany during the ascent.

🏔️

Harz Mountains

Look for the Brocken, the highest peak in Northern Germany, which often stands out above the clouds mid-flight.

🏢

Hanover Cityscape

A clear view of the Lower Saxony capital, including the Maschsee lake and the sprawling Eilenriede forest.

⚓

Hamburg City Center

On a typical approach to Runway 15 or 23, you get an unparalleled view of the Alster lakes and the Elbe harbor.

The right side is generally the winner for this route due to the Harz Mountains and the high probability of seeing the Hamburg city center and Elbphilharmonie on the final approach. If flying in the late afternoon, the sun will be behind the plane or to the left, providing perfectly lit landscapes for photography on the right side.

Left Side Highlights
7.6
⛰️

Vosges Mountains

Visibility of the rounded peaks and deep valleys of the French Vosges range immediately after takeoff.

🏙️

Frankfurt Skyline

A clear perspective of the 'Mainhattan' skyscrapers and the massive infrastructure of Frankfurt International Airport.

🌊

Rhine River Bend

The silver ribbon of the Rhine winding through the industrial and vineyard-heavy landscapes of Hesse.

🌾

Lüneburg Heath

Expansive purple and green moorlands of Northern Germany visible during the initial descent phase.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the rising sun. This side is excellent for spotting the industrial heart of the Frankfurt/Main region and the geometric patterns of the North German farmlands. In winter, the Vosges peaks often provide a beautiful snowy contrast shortly after departure.

Top Activities in Hamburg
Route Information

Distance: 694 km (431 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 9 min

Departure: BSL (47.59, 7.5291667)

Arrival: HAM (53.630401611328, 9.988229751586902)

Route Type: International

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