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OUL destination photo
HEL destination photo

OULHEL

Which side of the plane to sit from Oulu Airport (Oulu) to Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki)?

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the quintessential Finnish experience, showcasing the massive Lake District and the iconic Lake Päijänne, which is particularly stunning during the descent towards Helsinki.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏙️

Oulujoki Delta

Immediate views of Oulu city center and the river mouth during the initial climb.

💧

Finnish Lakeland

A dense mosaic of thousands of small lakes and ponds that define the central Finnish landscape.

🏞️

Lake Päijänne

Spectacular views of Finland's second-largest lake, known for its long, narrow glacial shape.

🌲

Salpausselkä Ridges

Terminal moraine formations visible as long forested ridges near the city of Lahti.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to see the sun reflecting off the water. In winter, keep an eye out for the distinct white patterns of frozen lakes. During the final 15 minutes, look for the suburban forests surrounding Vantaa.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Bothnian Coastline

Distant views of the Gulf of Bothnia and its rugged, low-lying coastal plains.

🏙️

Tampere Cityscape

Aerial view of Finland's third-largest city nestled between Lake Näsijärvi and Lake Pyhäjärvi.

🏰

Hämeenlinna

Spot the medieval Häme Castle and the Aulanko park area during the mid-flight descent phase.

⚓

Baltic Archipelago

On clear days, the southern coast and the countless islands of the Baltic Sea appear during the final turn.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as it stays away from the direct southern sun. It offers better views of major inland urban areas. If the plane approaches from the south, you might see the Helsinki city center skyline in the distance.

Top Activities in Helsinki
Route Information

Distance: 513 km (319 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 51 min

Departure: OUL (64.930099487305, 25.354600906372)

Arrival: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)

Route Type: Domestic

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