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ATH → HBE
Which side of the plane to sit from Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (Athens) to Borg El Arab International Airport (Alexandria)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more concentrated view of the Aegean islands and a superior perspective of the Egyptian coastline and the Nile Delta outskirts upon arrival.
Cape Sounion
The Temple of Poseidon is often visible on the southern tip of Attica shortly after takeoff from Athens.
Cyclades Islands
Stunning aerial views of Kea, Kythnos, and Serifos as the flight heads south over the Aegean Sea.
Eastern Crete
Aerial transit over the rugged Lasithi plateau and the coastal towns of eastern Crete.
Libyan Sea
A vast expanse of deep blue water separating the Greek islands from the African continent.
Alexandria Coastline
Views of the ancient city's harbors and the urban density of the Nile Delta fringe during descent.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the iconic Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. For daytime flights, the sun is typically to the right (west) during the southbound journey, providing excellent lighting for photos of the Greek islands without glare. Look out for the distinct transition from the Mediterranean blue to the hazy browns of the Egyptian coast about 20 minutes before landing.
Saronic Gulf
Views of Aegina and the volcanic peninsula of Methana immediately after departure.
Peloponnese Coast
The mountainous coastline of the eastern Peloponnese remains visible for the first segment of the flight.
White Mountains
The snow-capped peaks of Lefka Ori in western Crete are visible in the distance during clear winter months.
Shipping Lanes
Active maritime traffic moving toward the Suez Canal can often be spotted in the Mediterranean.
Western Desert
The stark, arid landscapes of the Sahara's northern edge as the plane approaches Borg El Arab.
The right side is ideal for catching the sunset if flying in the late afternoon. As you approach Borg El Arab, keep an eye out for the stark contrast between the blue sea and the golden desert sands. Note that the sun may cause significant glare on this side during midday flights, making it harder to see the distant Cretan peaks.
Distance: 942 km (585 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: ATH (37.9364013672, 23.944499969499997)
Arrival: HBE (30.91769981384277, 29.696399688720703)
Route Type: International
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