While takeoff offers interesting Gulf views on the right, the landing approach into Athens on the left provides more dramatic and varied scenery: mountain ranges, the Aegean, and the approach to a historically significant city. The left side captures the more visually compelling final descent.
Flown AUH to ATH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Abu Dhabi to Athens is 2,027 miles (3,262 km), a flight of about 4 hours 45 minutes.
The flight path crosses the eastern Mediterranean, passing over or near Cyprus (visible as a large island landmass if on a more southerly routing), the Levantine coast, and the Aegean Sea. The Taurus Mountains of southern Turkey may be visible to the north depending on exact routing. The transition from the arid Arabian Peninsula to the Mediterranean's blue waters and Greek islands marks the geographic midpoint.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from AUH
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Persian Gulf coastline and the UAE's coastal development as you climb northwestward. You'll see the shallow turquoise waters and barrier islands that define Abu Dhabi's geography during the initial climb.
Landing at ATH
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during descent into Athens. You'll see the Attica region's mountains, the Saronic Gulf, and the approach over the Aegean islands before landing. The city of Athens and surrounding Attica plain become visible in the final descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Abu Dhabi International (AUH) to Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Abu Dhabi to Athens. While takeoff offers interesting Gulf views on the right, the landing approach into Athens on the left provides more dramatic and varied scenery: mountain ranges, the Aegean, and the approach to a historically significant city. The left side captures the more visually compelling final descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Abu Dhabi International in Abu Dhabi?
During takeoff from Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Persian Gulf coastline and the UAE's coastal development as you climb northwestward. You'll see the shallow turquoise waters and barrier islands that define Abu Dhabi's geography during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Persian Gulf (turquoise shallow waters), Abu Dhabi city grid and port facilities, Saadiyat Island and coastal islands, Al Ain oasis region inland to the south.
What can I see when landing at Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos in Athens?
When landing at Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during descent into Athens. You'll see the Attica region's mountains, the Saronic Gulf, and the approach over the Aegean islands before landing. The city of Athens and surrounding Attica plain become visible in the final descent. Notable sights include: Hymettus and Penteli mountain ranges (flanking Athens), Saronic Gulf and Aegean Sea, Attica coastal plain, Athens city sprawl and Acropolis region.
How long is the flight from Abu Dhabi to Athens?
The flight from Abu Dhabi International (AUH) to Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) takes about 4 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,027 miles (3,262 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Abu Dhabi to Athens flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the eastern Mediterranean, passing over or near Cyprus (visible as a large island landmass if on a more southerly routing), the Levantine coast, and the Aegean Sea. The Taurus Mountains of southern Turkey may be visible to the north depending on exact routing. The transition from the arid Arabian Peninsula to the Mediterranean's blue waters and Greek islands marks the geographic midpoint.