Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Kirkwall. While the takeoff offers Thames and Midlands views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery—the Orkney Islands' unique geography, Scapa Flow, and the characteristic low-lying island terrain are visually more striking and geographically unique than the relatively common English landscape seen during departure.

During takeoff from Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Thames estuary and the Midlands as you climb northwestward out of Heathrow. You'll see the river's distinctive meanders and urban sprawl transitioning to rural landscape. Notable sights include: River Thames estuary, Greater London urban area, Midlands agricultural plains, Cotswold Hills (distant).

When landing at Kirkwall (KOI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Orkney Islands' distinctive geography as you descend toward Kirkwall. You'll see the irregular coastline, smaller islands, and the characteristic low, treeless terrain of Orkney Mainland. Notable sights include: Orkney Mainland coastline, Scapa Flow (large natural harbor), Hoy Hills (western islands), scattered smaller islands.

The flight from Heathrow (LHR) to Kirkwall (KOI) takes 1h 25m.

Lake District mountains (visible to the left during cruise over northern England), Scottish Borders moorland, Solway Firth estuary, Southern Uplands of Scotland, and the transition from lowland England to the Scottish Highlands as you progress northward toward Orkney