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PPWKOI

Our Recommendation
9.2

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.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🦅

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.6
🌊

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.

Top Activities in Kirkwall
Route Information

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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