Loading map...
LHR → JTR
Which side of the plane to sit from London Heathrow Airport (London) to Santorini Airport (Thira)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning views of the Alps, the Right Side is the clear winner for the arrival in Santorini. The typical approach path takes the aircraft south along the western edge of the island, providing a world-class view of the volcanic Caldera and the white-washed villages of Oia and Fira perched on the cliffs.
Search flights from LHR to JTR
White Cliffs of Dover
A classic view of the English coastline as the plane crosses the Channel toward mainland Europe.
Mont Blanc
The highest peak in the Alps is often visible on this side as the plane traverses the French-Italian border.
Corinth Canal
A tiny, perfectly straight blue line cutting through the Isthmus of Corinth in southern Greece.
Santorini Caldera
The main event: the crescent-shaped volcanic crater with its deep blue waters and dramatic cliffs.
Kamari Beach
See the famous black pebble beaches of Santorini just seconds before the wheels touch the runway.
The right side is essential for the iconic Caldera view. Aim for a seat in front of the wing for the most unobstructed photography. On the descent, keep your camera ready as the plane often banks right, offering a panoramic look at the entire volcanic archipelago. In the summer, late afternoon flights provide spectacular golden hour lighting on the cliff-side villages.
Book Hotels in Thira
London Cityscape
If departing to the east, enjoy views of the Thames, the Shard, and the London eye shortly after takeoff.
Central Swiss Alps
Unrivaled views of the snow-capped Bernese Oberland, including the peaks of the Eiger and Jungfrau.
The Adriatic Coast
Glance down at the turquoise waters where the Italian coast meets the Balkan peninsula.
Northern Cyclades
Spot the sprawling white towns of Mykonos and the rugged terrain of Tinos as you enter Greek airspace.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. During the final descent into Santorini, look out for the isolated island of Anafi and the rugged eastern slopes of Mount Profitis Ilias. It is generally the 'cooler' side of the plane in terms of temperature and light levels.
Get eSIMs for United Kingdom
Get eSIMs for GreeceDistance: 2,644 km (1,643 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 32 min
Departure: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)
Arrival: JTR (36.39920043945313, 25.47929954528809)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.