Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Saronic Gulf, Athens coastline, Aegean Sea) which provides more visual interest during the first 30 minutes of flight. While right side offers dramatic Caucasus Mountains on descent, the cruise phase over the Aegean and central Greece favors the left side's continuous coastal and island views. The takeoff experience at Athens—a scenic coastal departure—outweighs the landing advantage.
Flown ATH to TBS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Athens to Tbilisi is 1,142 miles (1,837 km), a flight of about 2 hours 50 minutes.
Aegean Sea with scattered Cycladic islands (Andros, Tinos, Mykonos visible on clear days), central Greece mainland including Mount Parnassus region, transition to Albanian and North Macedonian airspace, Lake Ohrid region, then approach to Georgian highlands with Caucasus Mountains dominating final descent phase
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ATH
LEFTLeft side captures Athens' urban sprawl, Saronic Gulf coastline, and the initial climb over the Attica peninsula with clear views of the Aegean Sea. Right side faces inland toward flat Attica plains with minimal visual interest during departure.
Landing at TBS
RIGHTRight side (north/northeast approach) provides dramatic views of the Caucasus Mountains as the aircraft descends toward Tbilisi, with the Greater Caucasus range dominating the horizon. Left side faces the Mtkvari River valley and flat Kartli plateau with less visual drama.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Tbilisi International Airport (TBS)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Athens to Tbilisi. Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Saronic Gulf, Athens coastline, Aegean Sea) which provides more visual interest during the first 30 minutes of flight. While right side offers dramatic Caucasus Mountains on descent, the cruise phase over the Aegean and central Greece favors the left side's continuous coastal and island views. The takeoff experience at Athens—a scenic coastal departure—outweighs the landing advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos in Athens?
During takeoff from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Athens' urban sprawl, Saronic Gulf coastline, and the initial climb over the Attica peninsula with clear views of the Aegean Sea. Right side faces inland toward flat Attica plains with minimal visual interest during departure. Notable sights include: Saronic Gulf coastline, Athens metropolitan area and port facilities, Aegean Sea horizon, Attica peninsula terrain.
What can I see when landing at Tbilisi International Airport in Tbilisi?
When landing at Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (north/northeast approach) provides dramatic views of the Caucasus Mountains as the aircraft descends toward Tbilisi, with the Greater Caucasus range dominating the horizon. Left side faces the Mtkvari River valley and flat Kartli plateau with less visual drama. Notable sights include: Greater Caucasus Mountains, Mtkvari River valley, Tbilisi city sprawl, Caucasus foothills.
How long is the flight from Athens to Tbilisi?
The flight from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) takes about 2 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,142 miles (1,837 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Athens to Tbilisi flight path pass over?
Aegean Sea with scattered Cycladic islands (Andros, Tinos, Mykonos visible on clear days), central Greece mainland including Mount Parnassus region, transition to Albanian and North Macedonian airspace, Lake Ohrid region, then approach to Georgian highlands with Caucasus Mountains dominating final descent phase