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ASR destination photo
IST destination photo

ASRIST

Which side of the plane to sit from Kayseri Erkilet Airport (Kayseri) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the majestic Mount Erciyes immediately after takeoff, the vast white expanse of Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü) during cruise, and the iconic Istanbul city skyline and Sea of Marmara upon approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Mount Erciyes

A massive dormant volcano and the highest peak in Central Anatolia, visible shortly after departing Kayseri.

🧂

Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake)

One of the largest hypersaline lakes in the world, appearing as a bright white or pinkish desert-like expanse.

⛰️

Taurus Foothills

Rugged mountain ridges of the Central Anatolian plateau providing dramatic shadows during early morning or late afternoon.

🌊

Sea of Marmara

As the plane descends, the blue waters and shipping lanes leading toward the Bosphorus come into view.

🏙️

Istanbul Historic Peninsula

Depending on the landing pattern, views of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Golden Horn are often visible.

Book an 'A' window seat for the best vantage point. Early morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates Mount Erciyes and the Salt Lake from the east. During landing at IST, if the plane approaches from the south, the left side provides an unparalleled panorama of the city's historic core.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🐍

Kızılırmak River

The longest river entirely within Turkey, snaking its way through the Anatolian landscape with its distinct reddish tint.

🏘️

Ankara Suburbs

The sprawling outskirts of the Turkish capital can often be seen midway through the flight duration.

🌲

Northern Forests

The dense green canopy of the Belgrade Forest and northern Istanbul outskirts during the final descent.

🌊

Black Sea Coastline

Dramatic views of the rugged northern coastline as the aircraft turns toward Istanbul Airport.

🌉

Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge

The northernmost bridge connecting Europe and Asia, often clearly visible during the final approach to IST.

Choose an 'F' window seat to see the Black Sea coast. This side is particularly scenic during sunset flights as the light reflects off the Black Sea. Keep an eye out for the massive infrastructure projects and the new airport's unique tulip-shaped control tower as you touch down.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 638 km (396 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 4 min

Departure: ASR (38.770401001, 35.4953994751)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: Domestic

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