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OTP → SOF
Which side of the plane to sit from Henri Coandă International Airport (Bucharest) to Sofia Airport (Sofia)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the winding Iskar Gorge and the rugged limestone cliffs of the Western Balkan Mountains during the descent into Sofia.
Friendship Bridge
The steel truss bridge connecting Giurgiu and Ruse over the Danube is often visible during the early flight phase.
Vratsa Karst
Dramatic limestone cliffs and rock formations of the Vrachanski Balkan Nature Park.
Iskar Gorge
The stunning, deep valley carved by the Iskar River as it cuts through the Balkan Mountains toward Sofia.
Vitosha Mountain
The massive, dome-shaped mountain that towers over Sofia, providing a dramatic backdrop for landing.
Western Balkan Peaks
Close-up views of the rugged mountain ridges that characterize the approach path into the Sofia valley.
The right side is the preferred choice for enthusiasts of mountain terrain. During the final 15 minutes of the flight, keep your eyes on the Iskar Gorge for some of the region's most dramatic landscape photography. Afternoon flights provide warm, golden lighting on the limestone cliffs of Vratsa.
Bucharest Cityscape
A panoramic view of the Romanian capital's urban sprawl and the Palace of the Parliament shortly after takeoff.
Danube River
A wide-angle perspective of the natural border between Romania and Bulgaria, specifically near the Ruse-Giurgiu crossing.
Danubian Plain
Vast stretches of agricultural fields and patchworks that define the geography of Northern Bulgaria.
Central Balkan Range
Distant views of the higher, snow-capped peaks of the Stara Planina range stretching toward the east.
Sofia Outskirts
Aerial view of the residential districts and industrial zones on the eastern side of the Bulgarian capital.
Sit on the left for morning flights to minimize sun glare while viewing the Danube. This side is excellent for seeing the breadth of the Danubian Plain and the distant silhouette of the central mountains. In winter, the frozen river sections are particularly striking.
Distance: 300 km (186 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 30 min
Departure: OTP (44.5711111, 26.085)
Arrival: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)
Route Type: International
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