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KAO destination photo
HEL destination photo

KAOHEL

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides an unparalleled vantage point of the iconic Finnish Lakeland and the vast Eastern taiga, especially stunning during morning flights.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌲

Taiga Wilderness

Endless expanses of pristine coniferous forests immediately after departure from Kuusamo.

🏔️

Syöte National Park

Views of Finland's southernmost fell area with rolling hills and snow-crowned trees in winter.

💧

Lake Saimaa System

The complex labyrinth of blue water and green islands that defines the heart of the Finnish Lakeland.

🗼

Kuopio & Puijo

Distant views of the city of Kuopio and its famous observation tower nestled between lakes.

🏘️

Porvoo Archipelago

Quaint coastal islands and the historic layout of the Porvoo region during the descent into Helsinki.

Opt for an early morning flight to see the sun reflecting off the thousands of lakes. In winter, the heavy frost on trees near Kuusamo is most visible from this side. Keep your camera ready as you pass over the Mikkeli and Savonlinna regions for the densest lake views.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Gulf of Bothnia

On clear days, the distant western horizon reveals the glimmering waters of the Baltic Sea's northern arm.

🛶

Lake Päijänne

Fly over the second-largest lake in Finland, known for its long, narrow shape and deep waters.

⛷️

Lahti Ski Jumps

Spot the iconic Salpausselka ski jumping towers as the plane begins its final approach phase.

🏙️

Greater Helsinki

A panoramic view of Vantaa and Espoo's urban forests and suburban architecture before landing.

Choose the right side for evening flights to enjoy the sunset over the horizon. It offers a better view of the agricultural landscapes of Southern Finland and the transition from wilderness to urban density as you near the capital.

Top Activities in Helsinki
Route Information

Distance: 666 km (414 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min

Departure: KAO (65.98760223388699, 29.239400863647)

Arrival: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)

Route Type: Domestic

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