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NRL → PPW
Which side of the plane to sit from North Ronaldsay Airport (North Ronaldsay) to Papa Westray Airport (Papa Westray)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer breathtaking views during this world-record short flight, the right side provides a superior view of Papa Westray's iconic Neolithic sites and the rugged Atlantic coastline during the final approach.
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Knap of Howar
The oldest preserved stone house in Northern Europe, dating back to 3500 BC, visible just before landing.
North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory
A prime spot for spotting rare migratory birds as you lift off from the island.
St Boniface Kirk
A beautifully restored 12th-century church standing on a pre-Norse monastic site near the PPW shore.
Mull Head
The dramatic northern tip of Papa Westray with its steep cliffs and teeming seabird colonies.
The right side is essential for archaeology enthusiasts. As the plane descends into Papa Westray, the Knap of Howar is visible right on the coastline. Because the flight is less than two minutes, have your video recording started before the pilot increases throttle. Clear days provide views all the way to the northern horizon.
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North Ronaldsay Sheep Dyke
The famous 13-mile drystone wall that keeps the unique seaweed-eating sheep on the shore.
The North Sea
Expansive views of the crashing waves where the North Sea meets the Atlantic.
Isle of Sanday
Visible to the south, showcasing its distinctive low-lying white sandy beaches.
Pierowall Roads
The sheltered waters between the islands often dotted with small local fishing boats.
Sit on the left for the best view of the sheep dyke immediately after takeoff from North Ronaldsay. Keep your camera focused downward; at an altitude of only 350 feet, the textures of the stone walls and kelp forests are incredibly vivid. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the southern islands.
Get eSIMs for United Kingdom
Get eSIMs for United KingdomDistance: 26 km (16 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 min
Departure: NRL (59.3675003052, -2.43443989754)
Arrival: PPW (59.351699829100006, -2.9002799987800003)
Route Type: Domestic
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