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LHR → HEL
Which side of the plane to sit from London Heathrow Airport (London) to Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the Swedish coastline, the sprawling Baltic islands, and the breathtaking Finnish archipelago during the final approach into Helsinki.
East Anglian Coast
Clear views of the Norfolk coastline and the North Sea wind farms shortly after departure.
Danish Jutland
Bird's-eye view of the northern Danish peninsula and its rugged North Sea beaches.
Southern Sweden
Vistas of the Scania region's agricultural patterns and the city of Malmö.
Öland Island
The distinct long shape of Öland and the Borgholm Castle ruins are visible on clear days.
Finnish Archipelago
Thousands of tiny forested islands dotting the turquoise Baltic Sea as you descend into Vantaa.
For the best experience, choose a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. On evening flights during summer, you will experience the 'Golden Hour' for a longer duration due to the northern latitude. Keep an eye out for the Aland Islands approximately 20 minutes before landing.
London Landmarks
If departing towards the east, enjoy views of the Shard, Canary Wharf, and the O2 Arena.
Thames Estuary
The intricate sandbanks and shipping lanes where the River Thames meets the North Sea.
Oresund Bridge
The iconic bridge-tunnel link connecting Copenhagen, Denmark, and Malmö, Sweden.
Gotland Island
Sweden's largest island, featuring the medieval walled town of Visby visible from high altitude.
Helsinki Port
Views of the Suomenlinna sea fortress and the capital's harbor if the flight approaches from the south.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the sun. If the wind is from the north, the approach into HEL often banks over the city, giving right-side passengers a view of the Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square.
Distance: 1,848 km (1,148 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 28 min
Departure: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)
Arrival: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)
Route Type: International
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