About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Reno Tahoe International (RNO) to Athinai (HEW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Reno to Athens. Right-side seats capture the dramatic Sierra Nevada departure and the Saronic Gulf and Hymettus Mountains approach into Athens. The takeoff view is slightly less dramatic than left, but the landing view is substantially better, making right the overall choice for this long transatlantic route.
What can I see during takeoff from Reno Tahoe International in Reno?
During takeoff from Reno Tahoe International (RNO), sit on the Left side for the best views. RNO typically departs to the north or northeast. Left-side seats offer immediate views of the Sierra Nevada's eastern escarpment and the Carson Range, which rise dramatically just east of the airport. Right seats face the lower terrain toward Washoe Valley. Notable sights include: Carson Range (immediately east), Sierra Nevada peaks (northeast), Washoe Lake (southeast in middle distance), Reno urban sprawl (directly below and receding west).
What can I see when landing at Athinai in Athens?
When landing at Athinai (HEW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Athens approaches typically use runways 03L/03R (northeast heading) or 21L/21R (southwest heading). On a northeast approach, right-side seats face the Saronic Gulf and the Athenian coastline. On a southwest approach, right seats view the Hymettus Mountains and the city's eastern suburbs. Either way, right offers superior views of Athens' geography. Notable sights include: Saronic Gulf (blue water body to the east), Hymettus Mountains (rocky ridge southeast of city), Acropolis and central Athens (urban grid), Mount Penteli (northern horizon).
How long is the flight from Reno to Athens?
The flight from Reno Tahoe International (RNO) to Athinai (HEW) takes Approximately 16-17 hours with typical routing via Greenland, Iceland, or northern Europe.
What does the Reno to Athens flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic, passing near or over Greenland's southern tip (depending on routing), then over Iceland or the Norwegian Sea. Transatlantic crossings at cruise altitude (35,000+ feet) offer limited landmark visibility due to distance and cloud cover, but clear days may reveal the Greenland ice sheet's edge, Iceland's volcanic terrain, and the Norwegian coastline. European approach typically crosses the Alps or Balkans before descending into Greece.