Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Thames estuary, English Channel, Kent coastline) which dominates the first 45 minutes of the flight. Although right side offers a slightly better landing approach with Mount Hymettus and Athens skyline, the extended cruise phase over the Mediterranean and Balkans is relatively featureless from either side. Left's strong departure advantage outweighs right's modest landing benefit.
Flown LGW to ATH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Athens is 1,487 miles (2,393 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
English Channel and French coast (first 30 minutes), Alps and Lake Geneva region (1h 15m into flight), Adriatic Sea and Balkans including Albania and North Macedonia (2h 30m to 3h 30m), Thessaly plains and Mount Olympus region in northern Greece (3h 45m), descent into Athenian basin with Aegean islands visible to the east
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LGW
LEFTLeft side captures the Thames estuary, Kent coastline, and the English Channel during westward departure. Right side faces inland toward the Weald and Surrey, offering only forested terrain and suburban sprawl.
Landing at ATH
RIGHTRight side (north-facing) offers views of the Athenian basin, Mount Hymettus, and the city skyline during typical 03L approach. Left side faces the Saronic Gulf and Corinth Canal area, which are scenic but less dramatic than the urban and mountain approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gatwick (LGW) to Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Athens. Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Thames estuary, English Channel, Kent coastline) which dominates the first 45 minutes of the flight. Although right side offers a slightly better landing approach with Mount Hymettus and Athens skyline, the extended cruise phase over the Mediterranean and Balkans is relatively featureless from either side. Left's strong departure advantage outweighs right's modest landing benefit.
What can I see during takeoff from Gatwick in London?
During takeoff from Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Thames estuary, Kent coastline, and the English Channel during westward departure. Right side faces inland toward the Weald and Surrey, offering only forested terrain and suburban sprawl. Notable sights include: Thames estuary with shipping lanes, white cliffs of Dover visible on horizon, Kent coastline curving southeast.
What can I see when landing at Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos in Athens?
When landing at Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (north-facing) offers views of the Athenian basin, Mount Hymettus, and the city skyline during typical 03L approach. Left side faces the Saronic Gulf and Corinth Canal area, which are scenic but less dramatic than the urban and mountain approach. Notable sights include: Mount Hymettus (Imittos) rising east of Athens, Athenian urban sprawl and harbor districts, Acropolis and city center skyline.
How long is the flight from London to Athens?
The flight from Gatwick (LGW) to Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,487 miles (2,393 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Athens flight path pass over?
English Channel and French coast (first 30 minutes), Alps and Lake Geneva region (1h 15m into flight), Adriatic Sea and Balkans including Albania and North Macedonia (2h 30m to 3h 30m), Thessaly plains and Mount Olympus region in northern Greece (3h 45m), descent into Athenian basin with Aegean islands visible to the east