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KAJ destination photo
HEL destination photo

KAJHEL

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

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a superior view of the expansive Oulujärvi at the start and the magnificent Lake Päijänne throughout the mid-flight, concluding with a better chance to see the capital's coastal beauty.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🌊

Lake Oulujärvi

Known as the Sea of Kainuu, this massive body of water dominates the view immediately after departure from Kajaani.

🏙️

Jyväskylä City

A perfect aerial view of the urban center situated at the northern tip of Lake Päijänne.

🛳️

Lake Päijänne

Follow the length of Finland's deepest and longest lake, a major waterway stretching toward the south.

🏰

Helsinki Skyline

Depending on the landing pattern, you may see the city center and the Suomenlinna sea fortress in the distance.

The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset reflecting off the thousands of lakes. Keep an eye out for the Salpausselkä ridges near the end of the lake district, which appear as long, forested lines in the landscape. For the best views of the archipelago, hope for a western approach into Helsinki.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌲

Vuokatti Hills

Look east early in the flight to see the prominent ridges and ski slopes near Sotkamo.

💧

Lake Kallavesi

Gliding past the Kuopio region reveals a dense maze of islands and narrow channels.

🧊

Frozen Landscapes

In winter, the eastern side shows vast white expanses of undisturbed snow over frozen marshes and smaller lakes.

✈️

Vantaa Northern Approach

Final views of the dense southern Finnish forests and suburban clusters before touchdown.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the glare of the southern sun. During winter, look for the tracks of cross-country skiers on the frozen lakes near the towns. In the autumn, the 'Ruska' colors are particularly vivid in the forested regions seen from this side.

Top Activities in Helsinki
Route Information

Distance: 463 km (288 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 46 min

Departure: KAJ (64.285499572754, 27.692399978638)

Arrival: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)

Route Type: Domestic

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