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BAL → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Batman Airport (Batman) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the majestic Mount Erciyes, the dramatic bends of the Euphrates River, and a more direct view of the Istanbul skyline and the Gulf of Izmit during the descent into Sabiha Gokcen.
Euphrates River
View the legendary Euphrates River as it flows through Eastern Anatolia, marked by deep valleys and massive hydroelectric dams.
Mount Erciyes
The most iconic landmark on this route; a massive dormant volcano with a snow-capped peak that dominates the horizon near Kayseri.
Osman Gazi Bridge
A spectacular view of one of the world's longest suspension bridges spanning the Gulf of Izmit during the final approach.
Istanbul Northern Skyline
As the flight aligns for SAW, you get sweeping views of the industrial and urban landscape of Kocaeli and eastern Istanbul.
The right side is best for photography, especially to capture Mount Erciyes. During landing, this side often provides a better perspective of the Osman Gazi Bridge and the sprawling suburban density of Istanbul's Anatolian side.
Batman Dam and Tigris
Immediately after takeoff, witness the vast reservoir and the historic path of the Tigris River snaking through the landscape.
Lake Hazar
A beautiful tectonic rift lake nestled between the Taurus Mountains, offering striking blue colors against the rugged terrain.
Salt Lake (Tuz Golu)
From cruising altitude, the massive, bright white expanse of Turkey's second-largest lake is clearly visible in Central Anatolia.
Prince Islands
As the plane descends over the Sea of Marmara, the archipelago of the Prince Islands appears just off the coast of Istanbul.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare while viewing the white salt flats of Tuz Golu. This side is also excellent for spotting the Prince Islands if the approach path comes from the south.
Distance: 1,066 km (662 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: BAL (37.9290008545, 41.1166000366)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: Domestic
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