Right-side seats provide superior views for the entire flight: dramatic Athens departure over the Saronic Gulf and Aegean, continuous views of the Aegean's island-dotted surface during cruise, and good sightlines toward Izmir Bay on approach. Left seats see mostly open water during the cruise phase.
Flown ATH to ADB? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Athens to Izmir is 176 miles (284 km), a flight of about 1 hour.
The flight path crosses the central Aegean Sea. Notable visible features include the island of Euboea (Evia) off the left wing shortly after departure, scattered Aegean islands including Andros and Tinos in the mid-flight phase, and the Turkish coastline becoming visible 20-30 minutes before landing. The Aegean's deep blue water dominates the cruise phase, with occasional whitecaps and shipping traffic visible on clear days.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ATH
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Saronic Gulf and the Athenian coastline as the aircraft climbs northeast. You'll see the sprawl of Athens and its port areas receding below, with the Aegean opening up ahead.
Landing at ADB
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during descent into Izmir. You'll see the Aegean coastline, the Izmir Bay, and the city's waterfront development as you approach from the northwest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Adnan Menderes (ADB)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Athens to Izmir. Right-side seats provide superior views for the entire flight: dramatic Athens departure over the Saronic Gulf and Aegean, continuous views of the Aegean's island-dotted surface during cruise, and good sightlines toward Izmir Bay on approach. Left seats see mostly open water during the cruise phase.
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 the Athenian coastline as the aircraft climbs northeast. You'll see the sprawl of Athens and its port areas receding below, with the Aegean opening up ahead. Notable sights include: Saronic Gulf, Port of Piraeus, Athenian urban sprawl, Hymettus Mountain ridge to the east.
What can I see when landing at Adnan Menderes in Izmir?
When landing at Adnan Menderes (ADB), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during descent into Izmir. You'll see the Aegean coastline, the Izmir Bay, and the city's waterfront development as you approach from the northwest. Notable sights include: Izmir Bay, Aegean Sea coastline, Mount Pagus (Alsancak district backdrop), Izmir city waterfront.
How long is the flight from Athens to Izmir?
The flight from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Adnan Menderes (ADB) takes about 1 hour. The shortest flight path between them is 176 miles (284 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Athens to Izmir flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the central Aegean Sea. Notable visible features include the island of Euboea (Evia) off the left wing shortly after departure, scattered Aegean islands including Andros and Tinos in the mid-flight phase, and the Turkish coastline becoming visible 20-30 minutes before landing. The Aegean's deep blue water dominates the cruise phase, with occasional whitecaps and shipping traffic visible on clear days.