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ASB → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Ashgabat International Airport (Ashkhabad) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the Greater Caucasus mountain range, the shimmering Baku coastline, and the northern approach into Istanbul over the Bosphorus.
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Garabogazköl Lagoon
A highly saline, turquoise-tinted shallow basin separated from the Caspian Sea by a narrow ridge.
Baku & Absheron
A clear view of the 'Flame Towers' and the oil-rich coastline of Azerbaijan's capital city.
Greater Caucasus Range
Majestic snow-capped peaks including some of the highest mountains in Europe stretching across the horizon.
Black Sea Coastline
The lush, green Pontic Mountains meeting the dark blue waters of the Black Sea as you enter Turkish airspace.
The Bosphorus Strait
The iconic waterway dividing Europe and Asia, visible during the descent into Istanbul Airport.
The right side is superior for dramatic mountain photography. About 45-60 minutes into the flight, look for the city of Baku. During the winter months, the Greater Caucasus range provides a stunning white-blanketed vista. For the best views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul's bridges, hope for a northern approach (Runway 35/34).
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Kopet Dag Mountains
The rugged desert peaks forming the natural border between Turkmenistan and Iran visible shortly after takeoff.
Southern Caspian Sea
Deep blue waters contrasting with the arid coastal plains of the southern Caspian basin.
Anatolian Plateau
The vast, high-altitude volcanic landscapes and undulating terrain of central Turkey.
Marmara Sea Approach
If the flight path tracks south, you will see the Princes' Islands and the southern entrance to the Bosphorus.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during daytime westbound flights to avoid direct sun glare. This side is ideal for catching the sunset over the Anatolian plateau if flying in the late afternoon. Keep an eye out for the unique 'fairy chimney' formations in the distance as you cross near Cappadocia.
Get eSIMs for Turkmenistan
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 2,549 km (1,584 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 24 min
Departure: ASB (37.986801, 58.361)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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