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ADB destination photo
DIY destination photo

ADBDIY

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a more consistently dramatic landscape, featuring the rugged Central Taurus mountain ranges, the stunning Lakes Region, and a spectacular view of the massive Atatürk Dam reservoir during the descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

Bozdağlar Range

High mountain ridges of the Aegean hinterland immediately east of Izmir.

💙

The Lakes Region

Stunning views of the deep blue waters of Lake Eğirdir and Lake Beyşehir surrounded by cedar forests.

❄️

Central Taurus Peaks

Dramatic, often snow-capped limestone peaks that define the southern spine of the Anatolian plateau.

🌊

Atatürk Dam Reservoir

One of the largest man-made lakes in the world, appearing as a massive turquoise sea in the middle of the arid plateau.

🛤️

Upper Euphrates Valley

The fertile plains and deep canyons carved by the Euphrates river before reaching the Mesopotamian basin.

This is the 'scenic side' for geography lovers. The highlight is the Atatürk Dam; look for it about 20-25 minutes before landing. Late afternoon flights are particularly beautiful as the sun casts long shadows over the Taurus canyons. Sit behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the lakes and reservoirs.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

Izmir & Mount Spil

Aerial view of the Izmir metropolitan area and the towering limestone cliffs of Mount Spil shortly after takeoff.

⬜

Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake)

On clear days, the shimmering white expanse of Turkey's second-largest lake is visible to the north.

⛰️

Anti-Taurus Mountains

Jagged peaks of the Aladağlar range marking the transition into Eastern Anatolia.

💧

Tigris River

The winding path of the ancient Tigris (Dicle) River as it snakes toward the city of Diyarbakir.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. Keep a sharp eye out mid-flight for the pale, reflective surface of Salt Lake, which looks like a white desert from cruising altitude. During descent, the basalt city walls of old Diyarbakir may be visible if the approach is from the north.

Top Activities in Diyabakir
Route Information

Distance: 1,141 km (709 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min

Departure: ADB (38.2924003601, 27.156999588)

Arrival: DIY (37.893901825, 40.2010002136)

Route Type: Domestic

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