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KEF → HEL
Which side of the plane to sit from Keflavik International Airport (Keflavik) to Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for Iceland's dramatic northern coastline and the breathtaking entrance into the Finnish archipelago across the Baltic Sea.
Faxaflói Bay
Stunning coastal views of the deep blue Atlantic and rugged Icelandic shores immediately after takeoff.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
On clear days, the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier can be seen to the north as the plane climbs.
Arctic Fjords
Distant glimpses of the jagged fjords along Iceland's northern coast before heading out over open water.
Norwegian Coastline
Aerial views of the rugged western coast of Norway as the flight crosses into Scandinavian airspace.
Archipelago Sea
Thousands of tiny forested islands and rocky outcrops as you transition from the Baltic toward Helsinki.
Sit on the left for early views of Iceland's northern fjords. On night flights during winter months, this side is prime for spotting the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) as you look toward the pole. During the descent into HEL, watch for the unique 'Sea of Islands' near Turku.
Reykjanes Lava Fields
Immediate views of the moss-covered volcanic landscape and geothermal activity near Keflavik.
Vatnajökull Glacier
Distant, shimmering views of Europe's largest glacier to the southeast during the initial cruise phase.
Scandinavian Mountains
The snow-capped 'Scandes' mountain range stretching across Norway and Sweden.
Swedish Lakelands
A mosaic of deep blue lakes and dense pine forests as the flight traverses central Sweden.
Helsinki Skyline
If the wind allows for a western approach, you'll see the white cathedrals and harbor of the Finnish capital.
The right side provides the best view of the Reykjanes volcanic fields and the Blue Lagoon area shortly after takeoff. It is also the preferred side for avoiding direct sun glare during eastbound morning flights, allowing for clearer photography of the Swedish landscape and the Gulf of Finland.
Distance: 2,444 km (1,519 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 16 min
Departure: KEF (63.985000610352, -22.605600357056)
Arrival: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)
Route Type: International
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