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CKG destination photo
HEL destination photo

CKGHEL

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the majestic Ural Mountains and the spectacular Finnish archipelago during the descent, with less glare from the sun on this northbound route.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏜️

Gobi Desert

Massive sand dunes and desolate rock formations of the Dzungarian Basin in Northern Xinjiang.

🏔️

Altai Mountains

The rugged, snow-capped intersection of China, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and Russia.

⛰️

Ural Mountains

The ancient geological spine marking the traditional border between the Asian and European continents.

❄️

Siberian Taiga

Endless stretches of dark coniferous forests and winding river systems in Northern Russia.

🌊

Lake Ladoga

Europe's largest freshwater lake, often appearing deep blue or frozen white near St. Petersburg.

🏝️

Finnish Archipelago

A breathtaking mosaic of thousands of forested islands scattered across the sea during the landing approach.

Choose the right side to avoid direct sunlight, providing better conditions for photography. If flying during the winter months, this side offers the best chance to spot the Aurora Borealis over Northern Russia. The highlight of the flight is the descent into Helsinki-Vantaa; the view of the islands is world-class.

Left Side Highlights
7.6
⛰️

Loess Plateau

The unique, deeply eroded yellow earth landscape of Gansu province shortly after departure.

🏔️

Southern Tianshan

Glaciated peaks of the 'Celestial Mountains' along the border of China and Kyrgyzstan.

🌊

Aral Sea Basin

The hauntingly beautiful and vast desert plains that were once part of the world's fourth-largest lake.

💧

Volga River

Europe's longest river snaking through the Russian heartland near Samara or Kazan.

🏙️

Moscow Region

The dense urban grid and surrounding forest belts of the Russian capital visible in the distance.

🚢

Gulf of Finland

The southern coastline of the Baltic Sea appearing as the plane prepares for its final descent.

The left side faces south, meaning you may experience intense sunlight and glare during daytime flights. In winter, this side is ideal for catching a long, multi-hour sunset over the Eurasian continent as you fly westward. Keep your window shade down during the bright mid-flight to avoid overheating the cabin.

Top Activities in Helsinki
Route Information

Distance: 6,724 km (4,178 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 55 min

Departure: CKG (29.719200134277344, 106.64199829101562)

Arrival: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)

Route Type: International

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