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BCN → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Barcelona International Airport (Barcelona) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side provides a spectacular panorama of the Mediterranean islands and the iconic approach over the Sea of Marmara into Istanbul's Asian side.
Corsica
Aerial perspective of the rugged northern coastline and mountainous interior of the French island.
Rome & Vatican City
On clear days, the Italian capital and its historic landmarks can be spotted from cruise altitude.
Adriatic Sea
The deep blue waters and scattered islands of the Adriatic as the flight transitions from Italy to the Balkans.
Princes' Islands
A group of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara, seen clearly during the descent into SAW.
Sea of Marmara
A busy maritime corridor filled with cargo ships waiting to enter the Bosphorus Strait near the Asian side.
The right side is essential for the approach to Sabiha Gökçen. As the plane descends over the Marmara Sea, you get a front-row seat to the Princes' Islands and the coastal sprawl of Istanbul's Asian side. Late afternoon flights offer a golden reflection on the water.
French Riviera
Stunning views of the Cote d'Azur including Nice and Cannes shortly after takeoff from Barcelona.
The Alps
Distanced but clear views of the snow-capped southern Alpine peaks across France and Northern Italy.
Tuscany
The rolling hills and historic vineyards of central Italy are visible as you cross the peninsula.
Balkan Range
Rugged mountain terrain across Bulgaria and North Macedonia during the final cruise phase.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side offers the best views of the European mainland and the high-altitude peaks of the Alps in the distance. Keep an eye out for the Italian coastline as you leave the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Distance: 2,273 km (1,412 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 2 min
Departure: BCN (41.2971, 2.07846)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: International
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