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ADB → DIY
Which side of the plane to sit from Adnan Menderes International Airport (Izmir) to Diyarbakir Airport (Diyabakir)?
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.
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.
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.
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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