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AJI → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Ağrı Airport (Agri) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior panoramic view of the rugged Eastern Anatolian mountains and the vast Keban Dam reservoir, followed by a potential view of the historical peninsula during the approach to Istanbul.
Mount Ararat (Ağrı Dağı)
Stunning views of Turkey's highest peak shortly after takeoff, often visible as the aircraft climbs and turns west.
Munzur Mountains
The snow-capped peaks of the Munzur range provide a dramatic alpine landscape as you cross Eastern Anatolia.
Keban Dam & Euphrates
Aerial view of one of Turkey's largest reservoirs and the winding path of the Upper Euphrates River.
Sea of Marmara
As the flight descends, the sparkling waters of the Marmara and the Princes' Islands are often visible on the southern approach.
Historical Peninsula
If the landing pattern loops from the south, you may spot the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque in the distance.
Book an 'A' window seat for the best views of the Anatolian heartland. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, perfectly illuminating the mountain ridges and the dam's turquoise waters. Keep your camera ready during the first 15 minutes and the final 10 minutes of the flight.
Pontic Mountains
View the northern mountain ranges that run parallel to the Black Sea, characterized by denser vegetation.
Black Sea Coast
Glimpses of the rugged northern coastline and the deep blue of the Black Sea as the aircraft nears Istanbul.
Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge
The northernmost Bosphorus bridge is often visible if the aircraft approaches Istanbul Airport from the northeast.
Istanbul Airport Terminal
Get a bird's-eye view of the massive tulip-inspired control tower and the sprawling terminal complex upon landing.
Choose a 'F' window seat to avoid direct glare from the sun during westbound afternoon flights. This side is particularly interesting during the descent into IST, as it offers the best view of the Northern Forests and the Black Sea entry to the Bosphorus Strait.
Distance: 1,219 km (757 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: AJI (39.654541015625, 43.025978088378906)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: Domestic
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