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ACC destination photo
IST destination photo

ACCIST

Our Recommendation
8.8

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏞️

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🏙️

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.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

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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