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KUO → HEL
Which side of the plane to sit from Kuopio Airport (Kuopio) to Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the sprawling Saimaa lake system, the largest in Finland, featuring an intricate labyrinth of islands and waterways that define the Finnish Lakeland landscape.
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Kallavesi Archipelago
Immediately after takeoff, witness the complex network of islands and bridges surrounding Kuopio.
Saimaa Lake System
A vast, breathtaking mosaic of blue water and green islands that stretches as far as the eye can see.
Mikkeli and Pihlajavesi
A clear view of the regional hub and the unique water patterns formed by glacial activity.
Salpausselkä Ridge
Massive terminal moraines formed during the last Ice Age, appearing as long, forested lines across the terrain.
Gulf of Finland
On final descent, the horizon opens up to the Baltic Sea and the outer Helsinki archipelago.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, providing optimal lighting for photography of the lakes. During autumn (September-October), this side captures the 'Ruska' colors reflecting off the water surfaces beautifully. Watch for the distinct glacial scars on the land during the mid-flight cruise.
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Puijo Tower
A quick glimpse of Kuopio's iconic observation tower standing atop the forested Puijo hill.
Linnansaari National Park
Aerial views of protected lake habitats and dense, untouched taiga forests.
City of Lahti
Spot the famous ski jumping hills and the urban sprawl located at the edge of Lake Vesijärvi.
Southern Taiga
Deep, expansive stretches of evergreen forests interspersed with small agricultural clearings.
Vantaa Landscape
Detailed views of the northern metropolitan infrastructure and suburban forests as you land.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun over the Baltic. Look for the distinctive white ski jumping towers in Lahti about 15 minutes before landing. In winter, the frozen lakes on this side create a striking white-and-green geometric pattern against the forest.
Book Hotels in HelsinkiDistance: 334 km (208 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 33 min
Departure: KUO (63.007099151611, 27.797800064087)
Arrival: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)
Route Type: Domestic
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