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ATH β KBP
Which side of the plane to sit from Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (Athens) to Boryspil International Airport (Kiev)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior primarily for its close-up views of the legendary Mount Olympus shortly after takeoff and the more dramatic ridgelines of the Southern Carpathian Mountains during the descent phase.
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Mount Olympus
The home of the Greek gods is visible approximately 20-25 minutes after departure, showcasing its rugged peaks.
Thessaloniki
A clear view of Greece's second-largest city and its coastal promenade along the Thermaic Gulf.
Balkan Mountains
Crossing into Bulgaria, the Stara Planina range offers impressive rocky outcrops and deep green valleys.
Southern Carpathians
As the flight traverses Romania, the FΔgΔraΘ Mountains present the most dramatic alpine scenery of the trip.
Ukrainian Steppe
The vast, geometric patchwork of fertile agricultural land becomes visible as you cross the border from Moldova.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and harsh glare. Watch for Mount Olympus very early; it is the highest point in Greece and unmistakable. During winter, the snow cover on the Carpathians provides exceptional contrast for photography. Choose a seat ahead of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the mountain views.
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Aegean Coastline
Immediate views of the Attic coastline and the North Aegean islands during the initial climb.
The Danube River
The massive waterway serves as the border between Bulgaria and Romania, often filled with river barges.
Bucharest
The sprawling Romanian capital is often visible, including the massive Palace of the Parliament.
Dnieper River
As you approach Kiev, the wide, blue ribbon of the Dnieper provides a stunning guide toward Boryspil.
Codru Forests
Dense forested areas of Moldova and Western Ukraine provide a lush green canopy during summer months.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun moves to the west, illuminating the landscape below. Keep an eye out for the Danube River crossing, which is a major geographical milestone halfway through the flight. On the final approach to KBP, the right side often gets a better perspective of the Dnieper's expansive reservoirs south of the city.
Book Hotels in KievDistance: 1,485 km (923 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 59 min
Departure: ATH (37.9364013672, 23.944499969499997)
Arrival: KBP (50.34500122070313, 30.89469909667969)
Route Type: International
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