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HEL → ADB
Which side of the plane to sit from Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki) to Adnan Menderes International Airport (Izmir)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, especially during the descent, featuring the glittering Aegean Sea and a stunning array of Greek and Turkish islands.
Finnish Archipelago
Immediately after departure from HEL, see the thousands of tiny granite islands scattered in the Baltic Sea.
Tatra Mountains
The highest range of the Carpathians, marking the border between Poland and Slovakia, offers sharp alpine scenery.
Danube River
Watch the massive river system as it winds through Central Europe and the Balkan plains.
Aegean Islands
During the descent, enjoy bird's-eye views of Greek islands like Chios and Lesbos surrounded by turquoise waters.
Izmir Bay
A stunning panoramic view of the coastline and the Karaburun Peninsula just before touchdown.
The right side is the definitive winner for sunset flights, as you'll see the sun dip into the Aegean Sea. On the final approach into ADB, this side typically offers a better view of the coastal resorts and the shimmering blue water. Ensure you have your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing.
Tallinn and Estonian Coast
Shortly after takeoff, view the historic rooftops of Tallinn and the rugged northern coastline of Estonia.
Warsaw Cityscape
If the flight path trends eastward over Poland, the skyscrapers of Warsaw are often visible in the distance.
Eastern Carpathian Mountains
Spectacular views of the forested peaks and winding valleys as you fly over Romania.
Sea of Marmara
The inland sea separating Europe and Asia becomes visible as the flight approaches the Turkish coast.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun. It provides an excellent perspective of the transition from the Baltic flatlands to the rugged Anatolian terrain. Look out for the massive urban sprawl of the Istanbul outskirts if the flight path tracks slightly east.
Distance: 2,454 km (1,525 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 16 min
Departure: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)
Arrival: ADB (38.2924003601, 27.156999588)
Route Type: International
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