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HEL destination photo
IVL destination photo

HELIVL

Which side of the plane to sit from Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki) to Ivalo Airport (Ivalo)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers the most iconic views of the flight, specifically the vast Saariselkä fell region and the stunning island-filled expanse of Lake Inari during the final descent into Ivalo.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌲

Salpausselkä Ridges

The geological ridges formed during the Ice Age, stretching across the landscape near Lahti shortly after departure.

🚤

Saimaa Waterways

Glanced views of the massive Saimaa lake system, characterized by a labyrinth of islands and narrow channels.

⛷️

Saariselkä Fells

The rounded, ancient fells of Urho Kekkonen National Park dominate the view as you enter the Arctic Circle.

🏝️

Lake Inari

A magnificent view of Finland's third-largest lake, famous for its 3,000+ islands, visible during the approach to IVL.

This is the 'scenic side' for the landing. Approximately 15-20 minutes before arrival, keep your camera ready for the Saariselkä fell line. In the summer months, the Right Side benefits from the bright morning sun illuminating the fells.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Vantaa & Helsinki Suburbs

Clear views of the metropolitan sprawl and the dense southern forests immediately after takeoff from HEL.

💧

Lake Päijänne

Finland's second-largest lake, known for its long, narrow shape and deep blue waters, visible in Central Finland.

🌊

Bothnian Coastline

On clear days, the distant glisten of the Gulf of Bothnia and the coastal city of Oulu appear to the west.

❄️

Arctic Tundra

The transition from thick coniferous forests to the sparse, snowy landscapes of the Lapland wilderness.

Choose the left side for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the horizon. During the winter 'Kaamos' period, this side is often better for spotting the Aurora Borealis through the dark northern sky if the flight is after sunset.

Top Activities in Ivalo
Route Information

Distance: 929 km (577 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 33 min

Departure: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)

Arrival: IVL (68.607299804688, 27.405300140381)

Route Type: Domestic

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