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KAJ → HEL
Which side of the plane to sit from Kajaani Airport (Kajaani) to Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki)?
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.
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.
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.
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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