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EDI destination photo
KOI destination photo

EDIKOI

Which side of the plane to sit from Edinburgh Airport (Edinburgh) to Kirkwall Airport (Kirkwall)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior mix of rugged Highland scenery, the historic waters of Scapa Flow, and the iconic silhouette of the hills of Hoy during the approach to Kirkwall.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌉

The Forth Bridges

Aerial view of the iconic red rail bridge and the modern Queensferry Crossing immediately after departure.

🏔️

Highland Vistas

Sweeping views across the interior of Scotland, including the southern peaks of the Cairngorms National Park.

🌊

Moray Firth

A crossing of the vast inlet where the Highlands meet the sea, often showing the coastline toward Inverness.

⚓

Scapa Flow

The world-famous natural harbor and historic naval site, framed by the southern Orkney Islands.

⛰️

Hills of Hoy

Dramatic views of the most mountainous island in Orkney, featuring high sandstone cliffs.

Sit on the left (Window A) for the most dramatic entry into the Orkney archipelago. In the winter months, evening flights from the south may offer a chance to spot the Aurora Borealis over the North Sea. Ensure you are looking out early to catch the Forth Bridges right after takeoff.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
⛳

Kingdom of Fife

Clear views of the historic town of St Andrews and its world-famous golf courses along the coast.

🚢

Aberdeen Coastline

The bustling harbor of the Granite City and the long stretches of sandy beaches in Aberdeenshire.

🛡️

Duncansby Head

The true northeasterly point of the British mainland, known for its sharp sea stacks and lighthouse.

🏝️

South Ronaldsay

Detailed views of the southernmost major island of Orkney as the aircraft aligns for the runway.

🌊

Pentland Firth

The turbulent stretch of water separating the mainland from Orkney, where the Atlantic meets the North Sea.

The right side (Window F/D depending on aircraft) is better for coastal geography. It provides excellent morning light for photography as you head north. Keep an eye out for the distinctive lighthouse at Duncansby Head just before you cross the water into Orkney territory.

Top Activities in Kirkwall
Route Information

Distance: 336 km (209 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 34 min

Departure: EDI (55.95000076293945, -3.372499942779541)

Arrival: KOI (58.957801818847656, -2.9049999713897705)

Route Type: Domestic

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