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AER → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Sochi International Airport (Sochi) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is preferred as it provides the most dramatic views of the Western Caucasus mountains immediately after takeoff from Sochi, followed by a scenic approach over the northern forests and coast of Istanbul.
Search flights from AER to IST
Western Caucasus Peaks
Breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains of the Caucasian range rising sharply behind the Sochi coastline.
Sochi Olympic Park
A bird's-eye view of the Fisht Olympic Stadium and the coastal cluster where the 2014 Winter Games were held.
Turkish Northern Coast
Rugged cliffs and hidden beaches along the European side of Turkey as the plane crosses into Turkish airspace.
Belgrad Forest
The massive green expanse of Istanbul's largest forest, visible just before touchdown at the new Istanbul Airport.
The right side is unbeatable for the departure phase; ensure your window is clean for photos of the mountains. On landing at IST, the right side usually provides a direct view of the Black Sea coastline of the European side. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the Caucasus.
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Black Sea Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Black Sea as the aircraft levels off after departure from the Russian coast.
Maritime Shipping Lanes
Spotting large cargo vessels and tankers queueing for entry into the Bosphorus Strait near the end of the flight.
Bosphorus Bridges
Distant views of the iconic bridges connecting Europe and Asia if the flight path tracks slightly south of the city.
Anatolian Istanbul
The dense, sprawling urban landscape of the Asian side of the city as you begin the final descent.
Sit on the left for evening flights to catch the sunset over the sea. This side is also better for spotting the historic Asian districts of Istanbul if the aircraft performs a southern approach before turning toward the airport.
Get eSIMs for Russia
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 951 km (591 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: AER (43.449902, 39.9566)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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