The outbound climb offers more dramatic and varied terrain (Malvern Hills, Severn Valley, Cotswolds), while the landing approach is somewhat obscured by the standard northwest descent path into Thessaloniki. Right-side seats provide the most consistent scenic value across the flight.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the English Channel near Dover, then proceeds over northern France (Seine Valley visible), crosses the Alps near the Mont Blanc massif (visible as a distant snow-capped ridge on clear days), descends through the Rhône Valley, crosses the Mediterranean near the Côte d'Azur, and approaches Greece over the Aegean Sea. The Alps represent the most dramatic midpoint feature, though visibility depends on weather. The Mediterranean crossing offers open water views with occasional Greek islands visible as the aircraft approaches the mainland.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Birmingham (BHX) to Makedonia (SKG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Birmingham to Thessaloniki. The outbound climb offers more dramatic and varied terrain (Malvern Hills, Severn Valley, Cotswolds), while the landing approach is somewhat obscured by the standard northwest descent path into Thessaloniki. Right-side seats provide the most consistent scenic value across the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Birmingham in Birmingham?
During takeoff from Birmingham (BHX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Malvern Hills and the Severn Valley as the aircraft climbs southeastward from Birmingham. The terrain relief and river valley are clearly visible during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Malvern Hills, Severn Valley, Worcester, Cotswold Edge.
What can I see when landing at Makedonia in Thessaloniki?
When landing at Makedonia (SKG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the Thermaic Gulf coastline and the approach into Thessaloniki from the northwest. The city's waterfront, Mount Olympus in the distance, and the Aliakmon River delta become visible during descent. Notable sights include: Thermaic Gulf, Mount Olympus, Thessaloniki waterfront, Aliakmon River delta.
How long is the flight from Birmingham to Thessaloniki?
The flight from Birmingham (BHX) to Makedonia (SKG) takes Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Birmingham to Thessaloniki flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the English Channel near Dover, then proceeds over northern France (Seine Valley visible), crosses the Alps near the Mont Blanc massif (visible as a distant snow-capped ridge on clear days), descends through the Rhône Valley, crosses the Mediterranean near the Côte d'Azur, and approaches Greece over the Aegean Sea. The Alps represent the most dramatic midpoint feature, though visibility depends on weather. The Mediterranean crossing offers open water views with occasional Greek islands visible as the aircraft approaches the mainland.