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LGW → CHQ
Which side of the plane to sit from London Gatwick Airport (London) to Chania International Airport (Chania)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior sequence of landmarks, including the heart of the Swiss Alps, the unique geography of Venice and the Adriatic coast, and the scattered islands of the Aegean Sea during the descent.
The Central Alps
Breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of Switzerland and Austria, typically visible about 80-90 minutes after takeoff.
Venetian Lagoon
Look down to spot the unmistakable S-shape of the Grand Canal and the surrounding islands of Venice as you cross the Italian coast.
Dalmatian Coast
The crystal-clear turquoise waters and hundreds of small islands along the coastline of Croatia and Montenegro.
The Peloponnese
Aerial views of the rugged Greek mainland and the Gulf of Corinth before the final overwater stretch.
Aegean Islands
As the flight descends toward Crete, you will pass over the Cyclades, often seeing Milos or Santorini in the distance.
Akrotiri Peninsula
The final approach into CHQ provides a close-up look at the rocky northern coast of Crete and the Souda Bay.
Sit on the left for the best morning light on the Alps without the direct sun glare. During the summer, the late afternoon sun will be on the opposite side, making the left side much cooler and better for photos of the Adriatic and Greek islands.
Paris Suburbs
Depending on the specific airway, the outskirts of Paris and the winding Seine river are often visible shortly after crossing the channel.
Mont Blanc
The highest peak in Western Europe is visible to the south as you traverse the border region between France and Italy.
Tuscan Countryside
The rolling hills and vineyards of central Italy provide a beautiful patchwork quilt appearance from 35,000 feet.
Mount Vesuvius
On clear days with a southerly route, the iconic crater near Naples can be seen jutting out toward the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Lefka Ori (White Mountains)
Stunning views of Crete's massive limestone mountain range during the final descent into Chania International.
Choose the right side if you are flying in the morning to see the White Mountains of Crete illuminated by the sun upon arrival. Be aware that on southbound flights in the afternoon, the sun will be on this side, which may require you to close the window shade to avoid heat and glare.
Distance: 2,603 km (1,617 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 28 min
Departure: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)
Arrival: CHQ (35.531700134277344, 24.14970016479492)
Route Type: International
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