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KOI → NRL
Which side of the plane to sit from Kirkwall Airport (Kirkwall) to North Ronaldsay Airport (North Ronaldsay)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the unique topography of the North Isles, particularly the stunning white sand beaches of Sanday and the iconic stone sheep dyke of North Ronaldsay upon arrival.
Sanday's Bays
Low-level views of the turquoise waters and expansive white sands of Sanday, which look remarkably tropical from the air.
The Sheep Dyke
The world-famous 13-mile drystone wall that encircles North Ronaldsay to keep the seaweed-eating sheep on the shore.
North Ronaldsay Lighthouse
The tallest land-based lighthouse in the UK, standing as a prominent landmark during the final approach.
Coastal Sheep
If the altitude is low enough on approach, you can spot the rare North Ronaldsay sheep grazing on the kelp-covered rocks.
Keep your camera ready from the moment you cross Sanday. The approach to North Ronaldsay is very quick, and the sheep dyke is best viewed from this side as the plane banks for its final descent into the airfield.
Kirkwall Panorama
Aerial views of the historic town of Kirkwall and the red sandstone St Magnus Cathedral shortly after takeoff.
Eday Cliffs
The rugged coastline and hilly, peat-covered moorlands of Eday provide a stark contrast to the flatter islands nearby.
Atlantic Horizon
Expansive views where the North Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, often showcasing dramatic wave patterns against the skerries.
Sit toward the front of the Britten-Norman Islander to avoid the engine housing. This side is particularly scenic during the late afternoon when the sun highlights the cliff faces of Eday and Westray.
Distance: 53 km (33 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 min
Departure: KOI (58.957801818847656, -2.9049999713897705)
Arrival: NRL (59.3675003052, -2.43443989754)
Route Type: Domestic
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