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STN → CHQ
Which side of the plane to sit from London Stansted Airport (London) to Chania International Airport (Chania)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer majestic views of the Alps, the Right Side is preferred for its proximity to Mont Blanc and the spectacular approach over the Balos Lagoon and the western Cretan coastline.
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Mont Blanc
The highest peak in Europe is often visible to the south during the transit across the western Alpine region.
Italian Apennines
The rugged spine of Italy offers beautiful textures and high-altitude landscapes as you fly south-east.
Balos Lagoon
One of the most photographed spots in Greece, featuring turquoise waters and white sand, visible during the descent.
Gramvousa Peninsula
The wild, uninhabited western tip of Crete with its rocky cliffs and historic fortress ruins.
Sit on the right for the iconic approach; the flight path often banks over the Gramvousa Peninsula, offering a perfect top-down view of Balos Lagoon. Note that this side will face the sun for most of the flight, so keep your window shade ready.
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Essex & Thames Estuary
Aerial views of the South East English coastline and the mouth of the River Thames shortly after takeoff.
Central Alpine Range
A sweeping panorama of the Swiss and Austrian Alps, featuring snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys.
Adriatic Sea
Vast views of the deep blue Adriatic with the distant coastline of the Balkans visible on clear days.
White Mountains
The dramatic Lefka Ori mountain range of Crete provides a rugged welcome during the final descent.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. During the final approach into Chania, look out for the massive natural harbor of Souda Bay, which is often used as a naval base.
Get eSIMs for United Kingdom
Get eSIMs for GreeceDistance: 2,623 km (1,630 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 30 min
Departure: STN (51.8849983215, 0.234999999404)
Arrival: CHQ (35.531700134277344, 24.14970016479492)
Route Type: International
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