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BOM destination photo
IST destination photo

BOMIST

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Zagros Mountains in Iran and the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Van in Eastern Turkey, followed by a potential view of the Bosphorus during the Istanbul approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Zagros Mountains

Extensive views of the snow-capped, folded mountain ranges crossing through Western Iran.

💧

Lake Van

Turkey's largest lake, famous for its deep blue color and surrounding volcanic peaks like Mount Suphan.

🌋

Mount Erciyes

A massive dormant stratovolcano rising above the Central Anatolian Plateau near Kayseri.

🌉

The Bosphorus

On northern approaches, you can see the strait dividing Europe and Asia, dotted with historical palaces and bridges.

The right side is highly recommended for daytime flights. To see the Zagros mountains clearly, aim for a window seat away from the wing. During the descent into IST, the right side often provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the city's historic peninsula if the flight approaches from the north.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Arabian Sea

Vast expanse of the Indian Ocean shortly after departure from Mumbai.

🏙️

UAE Skyline

Possible distant views of the Dubai skyline and the Burj Khalifa depending on the specific air corridor.

🏜️

Iraqi Deserts

The stark, beautiful patterns of the Mesopotamian desert and the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates.

🚢

Sea of Marmara

A view of the busy shipping lanes and islands as the aircraft begins its final descent into Istanbul.

Choose this side if you are flying an evening or late afternoon flight to catch a spectacular sunset over the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern landscapes. It is generally quieter for glare during the midday portion of the flight.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 4,835 km (3,004 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 41 min

Departure: BOM (19.0886993408, 72.8678970337)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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