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CHQ → STN
Which side of the plane to sit from Chania International Airport (Chania) to London Stansted Airport (London)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the Mediterranean coastline, the highest peaks of the Western Alps, and the typical approach patterns over the Thames Estuary into London.
Gramvousa Peninsula
Immediately after takeoff from Chania, witness the turquoise lagoons and rugged cliffs of Western Crete.
Peloponnese Mountains
View the dramatic, arid peaks of southern Greece as the flight tracks northwest toward Italy.
Tyrrhenian Sea
A vast blue expanse often punctuated by glimpses of the Italian coastline and the volcanic Lipari Islands.
Mont Blanc & Western Alps
Spectacular views of Europe's highest peaks, including the snow-covered Mont Blanc massif during the transit into France.
Paris Outskirts
On clear days, the urban sprawl of Paris and the winding Seine River are visible to the west.
Thames Estuary
The approach into Stansted often provides a clear view of the container ports and the winding Thames heading toward London.
Choose a morning flight to keep the sun on the right side, preventing glare on your window. Seat yourself behind the wing for unobstructed views of the Alpine glaciers. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the patchwork fields of Kent and Essex.
Athens & Attica
Look east shortly after takeoff to see the distant Saronic Gulf and the coastal fringes of the Greek capital.
Adriatic Coastline
Views of the stunning Croatian islands and the shimmering waters along the Italian 'boot' profile.
Venetian Lagoon
If the flight path trends east, you can spot the distinctive shape of Venice and its surrounding islands.
The Dolomites
The jagged, pale limestone peaks of the Italian Dolomites offer a sharp contrast to the blue Mediterranean.
Rhine Valley
The flight often passes over the vineyard-covered hills and industrial hubs along the Rhine River in Germany.
Essex Coast
Final approach views of the North Sea coastline and the historic seaside towns of Clacton and Southend.
Excellent for sunset views on late afternoon departures from Chania. If the flight takes a more easterly corridor, the right side provides the best look at the Balkan mountain ranges. Watch for the light reflecting off the Alpine lakes during mid-flight.
Distance: 2,623 km (1,630 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 30 min
Departure: CHQ (35.531700134277344, 24.14970016479492)
Arrival: STN (51.8849983215, 0.234999999404)
Route Type: International
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