Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Athens to Chania. Right seats capture the Athenian geography on departure and still provide decent views of the Cretan mountains on approach. The departure views are more distinctive and sustained than the landing views.

During takeoff from Athinai (HEW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Athens typically departs runway 03L/03R (northbound) or 21L/21R (southbound). Right seats offer views of the Saronic Gulf and the Attica coastline as you climb out. If departing southbound, you'll see the Hymettus mountain range to the right and the sprawl of greater Athens receding beneath. Notable sights include: Hymettus mountain range (southeast of airport), Saronic Gulf (east/southeast), Athens urban sprawl, Mount Penteli (north).

When landing at Souda (CHQ), sit on the Left side for the best views. Chania typically uses runway 02/20. On approach from the north (runway 02), left seats face the Cretan coastline and White Mountains (Lefka Ori). You'll see the Aegean Sea, the island's northern coast, and the dramatic mountain backdrop as you descend into Souda Bay. Notable sights include: White Mountains/Lefka Ori (south of airport), Souda Bay (immediate approach zone), Cretan coastline (north), Aegean Sea.

The flight from Athinai (HEW) to Souda (CHQ) takes Approximately 50-55 minutes.

The flight path crosses the Aegean Sea between Attica and Crete. At cruise altitude (around 25,000 feet), you'll see the Saronic Gulf and Aegean islands (Hydra, Poros, Spetses) receding to the north. The White Mountains of Crete become visible on the horizon approximately 20 minutes before landing. The route passes roughly over open Aegean water with no major islands directly on the standard flight path.