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RTM → HER
Which side of the plane to sit from Rotterdam The Hague Airport (Rotterdam) to Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (Heraklion)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the majestic Swiss Alps, the stunning turquoise waters of the Adriatic coastline of Croatia, and a better angle of the Cretan landscape during the final approach into Heraklion.
Benelux Urban Centers
View of the densely populated regions of Belgium and Luxembourg shortly after takeoff.
Central Swiss Alps
A breathtaking crossing over some of Europe's highest peaks, including views of snow-capped massifs.
Dalmatian Coast
Spectacular views of the Croatian islands and the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea.
Peloponnese Mountains
Rugged, mountainous terrain of southern Greece as you head toward the Mediterranean.
Cretan North Coast
Unrivaled views of the Heraklion coastline and the Venetian harbor during the final banking for landing.
The right side is ideal for capturing the contrast between the high Alps and the blue Adriatic. During the landing at HER, the aircraft often performs a left-hand turn, giving right-side passengers a panoramic view of Heraklion city and the mountains of Crete. Afternoon flights on this side may experience some glare, so window shades or polarized lenses are recommended.
Dutch Delta Works
Aerial view of the intricate network of dams, sluices, and canals as you depart the Netherlands.
Eastern Alps
Glacial peaks and deep valleys across the Austrian and Swiss border regions.
Cyclades Islands
Look for the distinctive crescent shape of Santorini and the blue domes of the Aegean islands during descent.
Athens distant view
On a clear day, the urban sprawl of the Greek capital is visible to the east before crossing the sea to Crete.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight, which provides better lighting for photography of the Alps and the Aegean islands. Keep an eye out for the distinct volcanic caldera of Santorini during the final thirty minutes of the flight.
Distance: 2,472 km (1,536 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 18 min
Departure: RTM (51.956902, 4.43722)
Arrival: HER (35.3396987915, 25.1802997589)
Route Type: International
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