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.
Flown LHR to KOI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Kirkwall is 526 miles (847 km), a flight of about 1 hour 25 minutes.
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
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LHR
LEFTLeft 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.
Landing at KOI
RIGHTRight 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.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Heathrow (LHR) to Kirkwall (KOI)?
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.
What can I see during takeoff from Heathrow in London?
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).
What can I see when landing at Kirkwall in Kirkwall?
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.
How long is the flight from London to Kirkwall?
The flight from Heathrow (LHR) to Kirkwall (KOI) takes about 1 hour 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 526 miles (847 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Kirkwall flight path pass over?
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