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WMI destination photo
CHQ destination photo

WMICHQ

Which side of the plane to sit from Modlin Airport (Warsaw) to Chania International Airport (Chania)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic High Tatra peaks, the turquoise expanse of Lake Balaton, and the breathtaking final approach over the Balos Lagoon and the rugged western coastline of Crete.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

High Tatra Mountains

Stunning views of the jagged, snow-capped peaks forming the natural border between Poland and Slovakia.

💧

Lake Balaton

A massive, emerald-green lake in Hungary, easily identifiable by its distinct long, narrow shape.

⛰️

Pindus Mountain Range

The rugged 'Spine of Greece,' featuring deep gorges and traditional stone villages visible from high altitude.

🌊

Gulf of Corinth

The narrow strip of water separating the Peloponnese from mainland Greece, leading toward the Ionian Sea.

🏖️

Balos Lagoon

Often visible on the final approach, this world-famous lagoon features striking white sand and shallow turquoise waters.

The right side is unbeatable for late afternoon or evening flights, providing a spectacular view of the sunset over the Mediterranean. Keep a close watch roughly 25 minutes after departure for the Tatras and about 15 minutes before landing for the stunning Cretan coastline. If the flight path approaches from the west, you will get a front-row seat to the Gramvousa Peninsula.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏙️

Warsaw Skyline

Distant but clear views of the Polish capital's skyscrapers and the Vistula River shortly after takeoff.

⛰️

Mount Olympus

The highest peak in Greece, legendary home of the gods, visible as you cross the mainland towards the Aegean.

🏝️

Cyclades Islands

Aerial views of the iconic white-and-blue Greek islands scattered across the deep azure Aegean Sea.

⚓

Souda Bay

One of the Mediterranean's largest natural harbors, visible just before the final descent into Chania.

🪨

Akrotiri Peninsula

The rocky, monastery-dotted landscape of the peninsula where the airport is situated.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. This side is particularly rewarding during the final 30 minutes of the flight for spotting the diverse islands of the Aegean. Ensure your window is clean for the descent over Souda Bay, which offers great photo opportunities of naval vessels and turquoise coastal shallows.

Top Activities in Chania
Route Information

Distance: 1,901 km (1,181 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 32 min

Departure: WMI (52.451099, 20.6518)

Arrival: CHQ (35.531700134277344, 24.14970016479492)

Route Type: International

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