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AMM → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Queen Alia International Airport (Amman) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers unparalleled views of the dramatic Taurus Mountain range and the iconic Bosphorus Strait when approaching Istanbul from the south or east.
Jordan Valley
The northern reaches of the Great Rift Valley, showcasing a stark contrast between desert and irrigated greenery.
Mount Lebanon
High-altitude views of the rugged, often snow-capped peaks of the Lebanon mountain range.
Taurus Mountains
Spectacular, jagged limestone peaks and deep canyons as the flight enters Turkish airspace over the Antalya region.
Lake Beyşehir
The largest freshwater lake in Turkey, known for its brilliant turquoise waters and numerous small islands.
Bosphorus Strait
The world-famous waterway dividing Europe and Asia, lined with Ottoman palaces and modern bridges.
Belgrad Forest
The vast green lung of Istanbul visible just before touchdown when approaching from the Black Sea side.
The right side is superior for morning flights to avoid direct glare. It provides the best perspective of the Anatolian heartland and the Bosphorus. During winter, look for the snow-covered peaks of the Taurus range which are particularly photogenic.
Amman Skyline
A sweeping view of the hilly limestone architecture of Jordan's capital immediately after takeoff.
Mediterranean Coast
Panoramic views of the Levantine coastline and the deep blue expanse of the Eastern Mediterranean.
Cyprus Island
Clear aerial perspectives of the island of Cyprus as the flight paths north toward the Turkish mainland.
Princes' Islands
A cluster of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara visible during the initial descent into Istanbul.
Historic Peninsula
The Sultanahmet district, featuring the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, often visible if the plane circles for a southern approach.
Choose the left side for sunset flights to witness the sun dipping into the Mediterranean. On final approach to IST, keep your camera ready for the Golden Horn and the dense urban sprawl of the European side.
Distance: 1,243 km (772 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min
Departure: AMM (31.7226009369, 35.9931983948)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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