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HER → KBP
Which side of the plane to sit from Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (Heraklion) to Boryspil International Airport (Kiev)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the iconic Cyclades islands like Santorini, the high peaks of the Balkan Mountains, and the Romanian capital, Bucharest.
Santorini Caldera
Shortly after takeoff from Heraklion, look down to see the unique crescent shape of Santorini and its deep blue volcanic caldera.
Mount Olympus
As you traverse northern Greece, the snow-capped residence of the gods is often visible towering above the clouds.
Bucharest Skyline
View the massive Palace of the Parliament and the urban sprawl of the Romanian capital as the flight crosses the Danube into Romania.
Moldavian Hills
The undulating, patchworked agricultural landscapes of Moldova provide a textured view before crossing into Ukraine.
Aegean Sunset
On late afternoon flights, the left side experiences a dramatic sunset over the Mediterranean and Balkan ranges.
Sit behind the wing to capture the contrast between the Aegean blue and the white-washed Cycladic architecture. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the Bulgarian mountains without sun glare. If flying in winter, the Carpathian and Balkan peaks will be heavily snow-covered, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Dodecanese Islands
Distant views of Rhodes and the Turkish coastline are often visible across the sparkling Aegean Sea.
Black Sea Coastline
Watch for the coastal cities of Varna and Constanta where the land meets the deep turquoise of the Black Sea.
Danube Delta
The intricate network of channels and wetlands where the Danube meets the sea is a geographic marvel visible on clear days.
Dnieper River
As you descend into Kiev, the wide, winding Dnieper River dominates the landscape, featuring various islands and sandbars.
Kiev Pechersk Lavra
On final approach to KBP from the south, you can often spot the golden domes of the Lavra monastery reflecting the sun.
Choose the right side for morning departures to see the sunrise over the sea. This side is also better for spotting the expansive Dnieper River during the descent into Boryspil. Be aware of the sun's position in the afternoon, as it can make photography difficult due to glare off the wing.
Distance: 1,731 km (1,076 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 18 min
Departure: HER (35.3396987915, 25.1802997589)
Arrival: KBP (50.34500122070313, 30.89469909667969)
Route Type: International
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