Loading map...
AUH → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior for the approach into Istanbul Airport (IST). Depending on the landing pattern, this side often provides panoramic views of the Bosphorus Strait, the bridges connecting Europe and Asia, and the Black Sea coastline.
Search flights from AUH to IST
Yas Island
Immediate views of Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit, and the mangrove forests after takeoff from AUH.
Shatt al-Arab
The confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers near the Iraq-Kuwait border.
Zagros Mountains
Distances views of the formidable mountain range stretching across the border of Iraq and Iran.
The Bosphorus
The iconic strait dividing two continents, often visible if the plane circles for a southern approach.
Belgrade Forest
The lush green lungs of Istanbul located just south of the new airport complex.
The right side is the 'money seat' for arrival. For the best chance to see the Bosphorus and Istanbul's historic peninsula, pray for a landing from the north. Even if landing from the south, the right side typically offers better views of the Black Sea coastline and the sprawling urbanization of the city's European side.
Book Hotels in Istanbul
Persian Gulf
Clear views of the turquoise waters and offshore oil installations shortly after departing Abu Dhabi.
Mesopotamian Plains
The vast, arid landscapes of Southern Iraq where the dawn of civilization began.
Lake Tuz
A massive, bright white salt lake in Central Anatolia that is particularly striking from high altitudes.
Taurus Mountains
Stunning snow-capped peaks and rugged limestone ridges as you cross into Southern Turkey.
Sea of Marmara
Views of the busy shipping lanes and the Princes' Islands during the initial descent phase.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is excellent for viewing the stark contrast of the Turkish Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü). Keep your window shade open as you cross the Taurus Mountains for some of the best alpine photography on the route.
Get eSIMs for United Arab Emirates
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 3,039 km (1,888 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 35 min
Departure: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.