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HEL β AMS
Which side of the plane to sit from Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior sequence of coastal vistas, including the sprawling archipelagos of the Baltic Sea, the Swedish island of Gotland, and the unique UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea islands during the descent into Amsterdam.
Archipelago Sea
Thousands of tiny granite islands scattered across the blue waters between Finland and Sweden shortly after departure.
Gotland Island
The flight path often passes directly over or west of Sweden's largest island, showcasing its limestone cliffs and Visby's coastline.
Wadden Sea
A breathtaking view of the intertidal sand and mud flats along the German and Dutch Frisian Islands.
IJmuiden & North Sea
If approaching from the sea, view the massive steelworks and the North Sea Canal locks that lead into Amsterdam.
Zandvoort Coastline
Catch a glimpse of the Dutch beaches and the famous Formula 1 circuit just before the final turn into Schiphol.
Choose the right side for the most dramatic coastal geography. It is particularly stunning during sunset flights, as the sun dips into the North Sea. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the Frisian Islands, which look like a string of pearls in the water. For the best views of the Dutch coast, hope for a western approach (Runway 06 or 09).
Helsinki Skyline
Excellent views of the Finnish capital and the historic Suomenlinna sea fortress immediately after takeoff from Vantaa.
Tallinn Overview
On a clear day, look south across the Gulf of Finland to spot the medieval spires of the Estonian capital.
Hamburg & Elbe
As the flight crosses Northern Germany, the massive port facilities of Hamburg and the winding Elbe River are visible.
Dutch Polders
During the final approach, witness the geometric precision of the reclaimed Flevoland polders and the city of Almere.
Sit on the left for the best morning light when flying southwest, avoiding direct sun glare. During winter months, the low sun angle highlights the frozen textures of the Baltic coastline. If landing on Runway 18R (Polderbaan), you will get a great view of the airport terminal complex during the long taxi.
Distance: 1,521 km (945 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 2 min
Departure: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)
Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Route Type: International
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