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HEL destination photo
ORY destination photo

HELORY

Which side of the plane to sit from Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki) to Paris-Orly Airport (Paris)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of Helsinki upon departure and the iconic Paris skyline, including the Eiffel Tower, on the final approach into Orly.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Helsinki & Suomenlinna

A clear view of the Finnish capital and the historic sea fortress shortly after departure.

🌊

Swedish Coast & Öland

Deep blue Baltic waters with views of the Swedish coastline and the long island of Öland.

🚢

Hamburg & Northern Germany

The massive port of Hamburg and the winding Elbe River are often visible on clear days.

🗼

Central Paris

Exceptional views of the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and the Seine as the plane maneuvers for Orly.

The right side is premier for city views. Request a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. During the Orly approach, the right side frequently provides a panoramic sweep of the entire Paris basin and its world-famous landmarks. In summer, the sun will be on this side in the afternoon, so keep the shade down until descent.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏝️

Helsinki Archipelago

Lush green islands and rocky outcrops dotting the Gulf of Finland immediately after takeoff.

🇱🇻

Baltic Coastline

The sandy shores and forested regions of Latvia and Lithuania visible as the plane moves south.

🏛️

Berlin Cityscape

On many routes, the sprawling German capital and its surrounding lakes appear to the south.

🍾

Champagne Vineyards

The geometric patterns of the famous French vineyards in the Grand Est region before descent.

Sit on the left for softer lighting during late afternoon flights to avoid direct sun glare. Watch for the Finnish islands immediately after takeoff and the patchwork fields of Eastern France during descent. Early morning flights offer a beautiful sunrise over the Baltic States.

Top Activities in Paris
Route Information

Distance: 1,928 km (1,198 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 34 min

Departure: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)

Arrival: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)

Route Type: International

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