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PPW → KOI
Which side of the plane to sit from Papa Westray Airport (Papa Westray) to Kirkwall Airport (Kirkwall)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a more dramatic perspective of the rugged western coastlines, including the sheer vertical cliffs of Westray and the ancient, hilly topography of Rousay.
Westray Cliffs
Dramatic views of the high sea cliffs that serve as massive seabird colonies for puffins and guillemots.
Noup Head
The iconic lighthouse perched on the edge of a jagged cliff face on the northwest tip of Westray.
Hills of Rousay
View the 'Egypt of the North,' an island packed with Neolithic tombs and dramatic terraced hillsides.
Gairsay Island
A low, green island once the home of the Viking Sweyn Asleifsson, clearly visible in the Wide Firth.
St. Magnus Cathedral
As the plane banks toward the runway, look for the red sandstone spire of Britain's most northerly cathedral.
The right side is superior for geological drama. Since the Loganair Islander flies at an exceptionally low altitude (often under 1,000 feet), use a fast shutter speed to capture the surf breaking against the Westray cliffs. Keep a close eye on the rocky skerries for sunbathing grey seals.
Eday Sound
Aerial view of the swirling tidal currents and the rugged eastern coastline of the island of Eday.
Sanday Peninsula
Distant views of the low-lying island of Sanday, famous for its expansive white shell-sand beaches.
Balfour Castle
The striking Victorian calendar house on Shapinsay is often visible during the final descent toward Kirkwall.
Mainland Farmsteads
Geometric patterns of vibrant green farmland and drystone dykes characteristic of the Orcadian landscape.
Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the best lighting on the turquoise waters of the sounds. This side offers a wider perspective of the North Isles archipelago, making it easier to spot the flat, sandy outlines of Sanday and Stronsay.
Distance: 44 km (27 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 min
Departure: PPW (59.351699829100006, -2.9002799987800003)
Arrival: KOI (58.957801818847656, -2.9049999713897705)
Route Type: Domestic
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