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SOF → OTP
Which side of the plane to sit from Sofia Airport (Sofia) to Henri Coandă International Airport (Bucharest)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a more iconic departure view of the Sofia city center and Vitosha Mountain, followed by a better perspective of the high Balkan peaks and the approach into Bucharest.
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Sofia City Center
Excellent views of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the urban grid shortly after takeoff.
Vitosha Mountain
The massive volcanic massif that dominates the skyline south of the Bulgarian capital.
Central Balkan Peaks
Views toward the highest parts of the mountain range, including Botev Peak in the distance.
The Danube River
A dramatic crossing of the second-longest river in Europe, marking the national border.
Bucharest Skyline
On final approach, look for the massive Palace of the Parliament, one of the world's largest buildings.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid direct sun glare. During departure from SOF, the plane often turns, giving this side a panoramic view of the entire city. Watch for the change in landscape from the rugged Balkans to the flat, fertile Wallachian Plain after crossing the Danube.
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Iskar River Gorge
Rugged limestone cliffs and deep valleys where the Iskar river cuts through the mountains.
Stara Planina Slopes
The northern slopes of the Balkan Mountains, showing dense forests and rural villages.
Danubian Plain
A vast expanse of agricultural patchwork spanning northern Bulgaria.
Ruse City
A glimpse of Bulgaria's largest river port, known for its Neo-Baroque architecture.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze when photographing the Iskar Gorge. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the northern mountain slopes. Look for the 'Friendship Bridge' connecting Bulgaria and Romania shortly before descent.
Get eSIMs for Bulgaria
Get eSIMs for RomaniaDistance: 300 km (186 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 30 min
Departure: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)
Arrival: OTP (44.5711111, 26.085)
Route Type: International
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