About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gatwick (LGW) to Santorini (JTR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Santorini. While takeoff offers pleasant English countryside views, the landing approach into Santorini is dramatically superior—the Aegean Sea, Cycladic islands, and Santorini's iconic caldera are among Europe's most visually striking aerial scenes. Left-side seats capture this exceptional finale.
What can I see during takeoff from Gatwick in London?
During takeoff from Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Thames estuary and the Sussex Weald as the aircraft climbs southeastward from Gatwick. You'll see the patchwork of English farmland and the North Downs ridge receding beneath you. Notable sights include: Thames estuary, North Downs ridge, English Channel coastline near Brighton, Gatwick's surrounding green belt.
What can I see when landing at Santorini in Santorini?
When landing at Santorini (JTR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide the best views during descent into Santorini. You'll see the Aegean Sea, the Cycladic island chain, and the distinctive caldera of Santorini itself with its white-washed cliffs and volcanic crater. Notable sights include: Aegean Sea with scattered Cycladic islands, Santorini's caldera and volcanic cliffs, Naxos and Paros islands to the northwest, the dark volcanic cone of Nea Kameni in the crater.
How long is the flight from London to Santorini?
The flight from Gatwick (LGW) to Santorini (JTR) takes Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes.
What does the London to Santorini flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the English Channel, then proceeds southeast over northern France (Seine valley visible near Paris), continues over the Alps (Mont Blanc and surrounding peaks visible as a distant ridge), crosses into Italy over the Po Valley, then follows the Adriatic coast southeastward. The Apennines run parallel to the right (east) side of the route. Further south, the flight crosses the Ionian Sea toward Greece, with the Greek mainland and Peloponnese becoming visible before the final descent toward the Cycladic islands. The Strait of Otranto (between Italy and Albania) and the Greek islands of Corfu and Cephalonia are passed during the southern leg.