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ACC → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Kotoka International Airport (Accra) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the most iconic landmarks, including the vast Tassili n'Ajjer rock formations in the Sahara, the scattered islands of the Greek Archipelago, and the world-famous Bosphorus Strait during the final approach into Istanbul.
Volta River Basin
Early in the flight, catch a glimpse of the massive Lake Volta and the lush greenery of eastern Ghana.
Tassili n'Ajjer
View the dramatic 'forest of rocks' and ancient plateau formations in the Algerian Sahara, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Greek Islands
As you cross the Mediterranean, the right side frequently offers views of Crete, Rhodes, and the smaller Dodecanese islands.
Bosphorus Strait
On the standard approach to IST, the right side provides an unparalleled view of the bridge connecting Europe and Asia.
The Historic Peninsula
Look for the distinctive silhouettes of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque as the plane aligns with the runway.
For the best experience, book an overnight flight that arrives in Istanbul at dawn; the sunrise over the Aegean Sea is spectacular. Ensure your window is clean for the Sahara crossing, as the geological textures are incredibly detailed from cruising altitude.
Accra Coastal View
Brief views of the Ghanaian coastline and the rapidly expanding urban sprawl of Accra immediately after takeoff.
Grand Erg Oriental
The western edge of these massive Algerian sand dunes creates a sea of orange and gold ripples visible for hundreds of miles.
Central Mediterranean
A vast expanse of deep blue water as the flight crosses from the North African coast toward the Balkan region.
Istanbul European Side
During certain landing patterns, you may see the modern skyscrapers of the Levent district and the sprawling European suburbs.
Choose the left side if you are on an afternoon flight to witness the golden hour glow over the Sahara Desert and to avoid the direct morning sun. During descent, if the wind is from the north, this side provides a clear view of the city's newer commercial districts.
Distance: 4,895 km (3,042 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 46 min
Departure: ACC (5.605189800262451, -0.16678600013256073)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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