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MAN → ATH
Which side of the plane to sit from Manchester Airport (Manchester) to Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (Athens)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer spectacular views of the Alps, the Right Side provides a superior vantage point for the dramatic approach into Athens, featuring the Ionian Islands, the Peloponnese, and the narrow Corinth Canal.
Mont Blanc & Western Alps
The highest peak in Western Europe often dominates the horizon as the flight crosses from France into Italian airspace.
Italian Lake District
Look down for the deep blue waters of Lake Maggiore or Lake Como nestled against the southern Alpine foothills.
Ionian Islands
Brilliant turquoise waters surrounding the islands of Lefkada, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos are visible during the descent.
Corinth Canal
A spectacular sight on the final approach, showing the perfectly straight, narrow waterway separating the Peloponnese from mainland Greece.
Saronic Gulf
Views of the islands of Aegina and Salamina set against the deep blue Aegean Sea just minutes before landing at ATH.
The Right Side is essential for the iconic 'scenic route' into Athens. To see the Corinth Canal, ensure you are seated behind the wing for a clear downward view. For afternoon flights, be prepared for some sun glare, but the golden hour lighting on the Greek islands is unparalleled.
London & South East England
Shortly after departure, clear days offer views of the Thames Estuary and the sprawling London metropolitan area to the south.
Swiss and Austrian Alps
A vast expanse of jagged, snow-capped peaks including the Eiger and Jungfrau regions during the mid-flight cruise.
Adriatic Coastline
Aerial views of the rugged Dalmatian coast and the turquoise waters bordering Albania and Montenegro.
Pindus Mountain Range
Known as the 'spine of Greece,' these mountains offer dramatic limestone peaks and deep gorges as you enter Greek airspace.
Sit on this side for morning flights to keep the sun behind the plane, reducing glare on the window. It is the better side for viewing the dense clusters of the Central Alps and the northern Greek mainland during the initial descent phase.
Distance: 2,637 km (1,639 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 31 min
Departure: MAN (53.35369873046875, -2.2749500274658203)
Arrival: ATH (37.9364013672, 23.944499969499997)
Route Type: International
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