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HEL → KBP
Which side of the plane to sit from Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki) to Boryspil International Airport (Kiev)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the Helsinki archipelago at takeoff and the iconic skyline of Kyiv, including the Dnieper River and golden-domed cathedrals, during the final approach.
Helsinki Archipelago
Thousands of granite islands and rocky outcrops visible immediately after departure from HEL.
Estonian Coastline
Clear views of the jagged northern coast of Estonia and the Gulf of Finland.
Lake Peipus
The massive freshwater border between Estonia and Russia, appearing like an inland sea.
Kyiv Reservoir
The 'Kyiv Sea', a vast man-made lake on the Dnieper river just north of the city.
Kyiv City Skyline
A breathtaking view of the Motherland Monument and the Pechersk Lavra's golden domes on descent.
Sit on the left for the best city views during the standard approach to KBP. In winter, the frozen Gulf of Finland creates stunning geometric ice patterns. For morning flights, this side remains in the shade, providing better conditions for photography without window glare.
Suomenlinna
The historic sea fortress guarding the entrance to Helsinki's harbor.
Polesia Marshlands
A vast wilderness of forests and wetlands stretching across the border of Belarus and Ukraine.
Dnieper River Bends
The winding blue curves of Ukraine's primary waterway as it flows toward the Black Sea.
Ukrainian Steppe
Endless agricultural fields that turn brilliant yellow during the summer sunflower season.
Baltic Sunset
On evening flights, this side offers spectacular sunsets over the Baltic region.
The right side is perfect for evening departures to witness the sun setting over the Baltic Sea. During the mid-flight phase, look for the intricate network of rivers and marshes in the Polesia region. In late summer, keep an eye out for the distinct yellow patches of sunflower fields as the plane descends into the Ukrainian plains.
Distance: 1,169 km (726 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)
Arrival: KBP (50.34500122070313, 30.89469909667969)
Route Type: International
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