Right-side seats provide superior scenery for the majority of the flight. Takeoff offers excellent Aegean views, and the northbound routing over the Aegean Sea and Greek islands provides consistent scenic value. While left seats have an advantage during landing, the extended right-side views during climb and cruise make right the better overall choice.
Flown ATH to SAW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Athens to Pendik, Istanbul is 352 miles (566 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Aegean Sea northbound, passing east of the Sporades Islands and west of the Turkish coast. Notable features include the island chains of the central Aegean (Skiathos, Skopelos visible to the west on left side), the Turkish mainland coastline with its mountainous terrain (Kazdağ range visible to the right), and the transition from open sea to the more enclosed waters approaching the Sea of Marmara. The Dardanelles Strait region marks the northern approach zone before descent toward Istanbul.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from ATH
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Saronic Gulf and Aegean coastline as the aircraft climbs northeastward from Athens. You'll see the islands and peninsulas that define the approach corridor, with the city sprawling beneath before the water comes into view.
Landing at SAW
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during descent into Istanbul. You'll see the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus strait, and the city's distinctive geography as you approach from the southwest. The water bodies and urban density create strong visual contrast.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Athens to Pendik, Istanbul. Right-side seats provide superior scenery for the majority of the flight. Takeoff offers excellent Aegean views, and the northbound routing over the Aegean Sea and Greek islands provides consistent scenic value. While left seats have an advantage during landing, the extended right-side views during climb and cruise make right the better overall choice.
What can I see during takeoff from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos in Athens?
During takeoff from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Saronic Gulf and Aegean coastline as the aircraft climbs northeastward from Athens. You'll see the islands and peninsulas that define the approach corridor, with the city sprawling beneath before the water comes into view. Notable sights include: Saronic Gulf, Aegina Island, Attica Peninsula coastline, Mount Hymettus (inland to the left, receding).
What can I see when landing at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Pendik, Istanbul?
When landing at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during descent into Istanbul. You'll see the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus strait, and the city's distinctive geography as you approach from the southwest. The water bodies and urban density create strong visual contrast. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul's European and Asian shores, Prince's Islands.
How long is the flight from Athens to Pendik, Istanbul?
The flight from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 352 miles (566 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Athens to Pendik, Istanbul flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Aegean Sea northbound, passing east of the Sporades Islands and west of the Turkish coast. Notable features include the island chains of the central Aegean (Skiathos, Skopelos visible to the west on left side), the Turkish mainland coastline with its mountainous terrain (Kazdağ range visible to the right), and the transition from open sea to the more enclosed waters approaching the Sea of Marmara. The Dardanelles Strait region marks the northern approach zone before descent toward Istanbul.