Loading map...
BRU → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Brussels Airport (Brussels) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the central European heartland, the meandering Danube River, and a higher probability of seeing the iconic Bosphorus and Istanbul city center during the approach sequence.
Brussels City Center
Panoramic views of the European Quarter and the historic center of Brussels during the initial climb.
The Alps
Distant but spectacular snow-capped peaks visible to the south while cruising over southern Germany and Austria.
Vienna and the Danube
Aerial perspective of the Austrian capital and the wide, winding path of the blue Danube River.
Balkan Range
Direct views over the rolling hills and mountain ridges of Serbia and Bulgaria.
The Bosphorus
If the flight approaches from the south, you'll get an iconic view of the bridges connecting Europe and Asia.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Balkan Peninsula. Aim for a seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Istanbul skyline and the Bosphorus during the landing pattern, which often circles the city.
Brussels Northern Suburbs
Clear views of the Atomium and the northern residential districts of the Belgian capital shortly after takeoff.
Rhine River Valley
Crossing the winding Rhine near Cologne, showing the dense industrial and urban landscape of western Germany.
Carpathian Mountains
Distant views of the rugged Transylvanian Alps in Romania as the flight path heads southeast.
Black Sea Coastline
Striking views of the turquoise waters and sandy shores as the aircraft descends towards Istanbul Airport.
IST Northern Approach
Dramatic views of the new airport's massive terminal architecture and the surrounding forests near the Black Sea.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. This side is also best for viewing the massive logistics and shipping lanes of the Black Sea as you enter Turkish airspace.
Distance: 2,141 km (1,330 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 51 min
Departure: BRU (50.9014015198, 4.48443984985)
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.