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HER → LGW
Which side of the plane to sit from Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (Heraklion) to London Gatwick Airport (London)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled vantage point of the stunning Italian coastline, including the Bay of Naples, and provides the best angle to see the highest peaks of the Western Alps, including Mont Blanc.
Cretan Shoreline
Crystal clear turquoise waters and the rugged northern coastline of Crete immediately after takeoff.
Mount Vesuvius
On a clear day, the iconic volcano and the expansive Bay of Naples are visible as you track up the Italian coast.
Tyrrhenian Islands
Bird's-eye views of Elba and potentially the northern tip of Corsica in the distance.
The Western Alps
Dramatic views of the highest European peaks, often passing near Mont Blanc and the Aosta Valley.
Parisian Horizon
Depending on the flight path, the distant skyline of Paris can sometimes be spotted as you cross northern France.
The English Channel
A classic view of the busy shipping lanes and the transition from the French coast to the UK.
Book a seat well ahead of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the mountains. On afternoon flights, this side will be in the sun, so keep your window shade ready but be prepared for a spectacular sunset as you approach London. Keep your camera ready about 90 to 110 minutes into the flight for the best Alpine views.
The Peloponnese
Views of the southern Greek mainland and the deep blue Ionian Sea shortly after departure.
Apennine Mountains
The snow-capped 'backbone' of Italy provides a rugged landscape throughout the mid-flight segment.
Swiss Alps
A panoramic vista of the central Swiss massifs and the many glacial lakes nestled between peaks.
Champagne Region
The orderly, geometric patterns of the famous French vineyards in the Grand Est region.
South Downs
Lush green rolling hills and the quintessential English countryside of Sussex during the descent into Gatwick.
The right side is ideal for morning flights if you want to avoid direct glare from the sun. It offers a broader, more panoramic view of the Alpine range rather than the specific close-up peaks seen from the left. During the descent, you may see the sprawling outskirts of London if the plane performs a typical holding pattern over Kent.
Distance: 2,680 km (1,665 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 34 min
Departure: HER (35.3396987915, 25.1802997589)
Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)
Route Type: International
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