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SKG → HER
Which side of the plane to sit from Thessaloniki Macedonia International Airport (Thessaloniki) to Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (Heraklion)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning Aegean views, the right side is superior for its proximity to the majestic Mount Olympus after takeoff and the iconic Santorini caldera during the descent phase.
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Mount Olympus
The highest mountain in Greece and mythical home of the gods, visible shortly after departing Thessaloniki.
Athens & Attica Coast
Distant views of the sprawling Athens capital and the busy shipping lanes of the Saronic Gulf.
Santorini (Thira)
A breathtaking view of the world-famous flooded volcanic caldera, Oia village, and the Nea Kameni volcano.
Heraklion Harbor
Aerial perspective of the Venetian Koules Fortress and the busy passenger port of Heraklion during landing.
Mount Psiloritis
The highest peak on Crete (Mount Ida), often snow-capped in winter, dominating the horizon to the west.
The right side is essential for the 'money shot' of Santorini. Choose this side for late afternoon flights to witness spectacular sunsets over the Peloponnese and the western Cyclades. Be sure to look out for the distinctive white-and-blue architecture visible even from high altitudes.
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Chalkidiki Peninsulas
Clear views of the Kassandra and Sithonia legs stretching into the deep blue Aegean Sea shortly after departure.
Skyros Island
The southernmost island of the Sporades, featuring a stark contrast between its forested north and rocky south.
Central Cyclades
Bird's-eye views of Andros, Tinos, and the sprawling coastline of Naxos with its mountainous interior.
North Cretan Coast
Views of the turquoise waters and sandy bays of northern Crete as the plane aligns for its final approach.
Sit on this side during morning flights (approx. 08:00–11:00) to have the sun behind you, illuminating the islands perfectly. It is also the best side to spot the distant peaks of Mount Athos on very clear days if the flight path trends slightly eastward.
Get eSIMs for Greece
Get eSIMs for GreeceDistance: 608 km (378 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 1 min
Departure: SKG (40.51969909667969, 22.97089958190918)
Arrival: HER (35.3396987915, 25.1802997589)
Route Type: Domestic
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