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HEL → KAJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki) to Kajaani Airport (Kajaani)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the heart of the Finnish Lake District, featuring a higher density of intricate island mazes and the sweeping blue landscapes characteristic of Eastern Finland.
Saimaa Fringe
The northern edges of the Saimaa lake system provide a stunning mosaic of thousands of tiny islands and narrow channels.
Puulavesi Lake
A classic example of the Finnish Lakeland with exceptionally clear waters and a jagged, rocky shoreline.
Päijänne Water Tunnel Route
Though the tunnel is underground, the surface topography reveals the direct line towards the capital's water source.
Kainuu Hill Country
As the flight descends into Kajaani, the terrain becomes noticeably more rugged and elevated compared to the south.
Oulujärvi Approach
On specific flight paths, the 'Kainuu Sea' (Lake Oulujärvi) is visible just before landing at KAJ.
Choose the right side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare while still enjoying bright, illuminated landscapes. Keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of the flight; the descent over the Kainuu region's ridges and lakes is particularly photogenic. Look for 'eskers'—long, narrow ridges formed by glacial meltwater that snake through the lakes.
Helsinki Metropolitan Area
Clear views of the northern suburbs and the sprawling residential greenery of Vantaa immediately after takeoff.
Lake Päijänne
Finland's second-largest lake appearing as a massive, deep blue body of water to the west shortly after reaching cruising altitude.
Central Finland Forests
Endless stretches of managed taiga forest that change from deep green in summer to a pristine white blanket in winter.
Jyväskylä Cityscape
The urban hub of Central Finland can often be spotted nestled between lakes Jyväsjärvi and Päijänne.
Sit on the left for evening flights to witness the spectacular Nordic sunset over the forest horizon. In winter, this side provides the best 'Blue Hour' lighting during midday flights. Watch for the geometric patterns of logging areas which create a unique patchwork quilt effect on the ground.
Distance: 463 km (288 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 46 min
Departure: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)
Arrival: KAJ (64.285499572754, 27.692399978638)
Route Type: Domestic
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