The left side wins because the Santorini caldera departure is a rare, high-drama volcanic view that few flights offer, and the cruise phase on this side likely tracks past the Adriatic coastline and the southern Alps, adding sustained visual interest that the right side's mostly open-water and flatter French countryside views can't match.
Flown JTR to LGW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Santorini to London is 1,622 miles (2,610 km), a flight of about 3 hours 45 minutes.
Aegean Sea and Greek mainland coast, Adriatic Sea crossing near Albania/Italy, southern Alps and Dolomite foothills, French countryside near the Rhone corridor before the English Channel
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpg?width=600)
.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from JTR
LEFTDeparting Santorini on runway 33, the climb-out curves the aircraft toward the mainland, putting the dramatic volcanic caldera and the dark cone of Nea Kameni on the left side. Passengers get a brief but striking look down into the flooded caldera rim before the island falls away.
Landing at LGW
RIGHTOn the westbound approach into Gatwick's runway 26, the aircraft descends from the east over the Weald, and London's skyline sits off to the north, which falls on the right side of the cabin. Passengers get a distant but recognizable view of the city before the final turn onto the Sussex countryside approach.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Santorini (JTR) to Gatwick (LGW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Santorini to London. The left side wins because the Santorini caldera departure is a rare, high-drama volcanic view that few flights offer, and the cruise phase on this side likely tracks past the Adriatic coastline and the southern Alps, adding sustained visual interest that the right side's mostly open-water and flatter French countryside views can't match.
What can I see during takeoff from Santorini in Santorini?
During takeoff from Santorini (JTR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing Santorini on runway 33, the climb-out curves the aircraft toward the mainland, putting the dramatic volcanic caldera and the dark cone of Nea Kameni on the left side. Passengers get a brief but striking look down into the flooded caldera rim before the island falls away. Notable sights include: Santorini caldera, Nea Kameni volcanic islet, Aegean islands of Ios and Anafi, the white-washed cliffs of Fira/Oia.
What can I see when landing at Gatwick in London?
When landing at Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Right side for the best views. On the westbound approach into Gatwick's runway 26, the aircraft descends from the east over the Weald, and London's skyline sits off to the north, which falls on the right side of the cabin. Passengers get a distant but recognizable view of the city before the final turn onto the Sussex countryside approach. Notable sights include: London skyline (Shard, City towers) in the distance, North Downs ridgeline, Wealden farmland and woodland, Gatwick's approach lights over Surrey/Sussex border.
How long is the flight from Santorini to London?
The flight from Santorini (JTR) to Gatwick (LGW) takes about 3 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,622 miles (2,610 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Santorini to London flight path pass over?
Aegean Sea and Greek mainland coast, Adriatic Sea crossing near Albania/Italy, southern Alps and Dolomite foothills, French countryside near the Rhone corridor before the English Channel