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LYR → TOS
Which side of the plane to sit from Svalbard Airport, Longyear (Svalbard) to Tromsø Airport, (Tromso)?
Left Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning Arctic vistas, the left side typically provides superior views of the dramatic Lyngen Alps and the mainland Norwegian coastline during the descent into Tromsø.
Sørkapp Land
The rugged southern tip of Spitsbergen, featuring sharp peaks and the transition into the open Barents Sea.
Barents Sea Crossing
Vast expanse of the Arctic Ocean; look for drifting sea ice or whales during the crossing in clearer months.
Lyngen Alps
Dramatic, glacier-carved peaks rising over 1,800 meters directly from the sea as you approach the Norwegian mainland.
Tromsø Island
Panoramic views of the city, the Arctic Cathedral, and the iconic Tromsø Bridge during the final approach path.
The left side is optimal for catching the morning sun reflecting off the Lyngen Alps on early flights. During the winter months, this side faces away from the prevailing sunset, offering better conditions for spotting the Northern Lights over the dark Barents Sea without cabin light glare.
Isfjorden Departure
Breathtaking views of the fjords surrounding Longyearbyen and the steep, flat-topped mountains of Nordenskiöld Land.
Western Glaciers
Aerial perspective of the massive ice fields and tidewater glaciers flowing toward the western coast of Spitsbergen.
Bjørnøya (Bear Island)
A remote, mist-shrouded nature reserve halfway between Svalbard and Norway, visible if the flight path tracks westward.
Kvaløya Coastline
The rugged islands and deep fjords of Norway's outer coast as the aircraft begins its descent into the Tromsø area.
The right side is best for photography during the departure phase from LYR, as it captures the quintessential Svalbard mountain silhouettes. In summer, this side receives the most direct light from the Midnight Sun, which can be harsh for photos but spectacular for viewing the deep blue of the Arctic waters.
Distance: 958 km (595 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min
Departure: LYR (78.246101379395, 15.465600013733)
Arrival: TOS (69.68329620361328, 18.91889953613281)
Route Type: Domestic
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