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BRU destination photo
SAW destination photo

BRUSAW

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the high Alpine peaks during the mid-flight segment and provides a breathtaking panoramic approach over the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus when landing in Istanbul.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

The High Alps

Direct views of the snow-capped central peaks of the Swiss and Austrian Alps.

⛰️

Dinaric Alps

Rugged, karst mountain formations stretching through the Balkan region.

🌊

Sea of Marmara

The inland sea that marks the boundary between Europe and Asia.

🏝️

Princes' Islands

A picturesque archipelago visible during the southern approach to Sabiha Gökçen.

🕌

Istanbul Skyline

Stunning views of the Bosphorus, the historic peninsula, and the city's massive bridges on final approach.

Sit on the right for sunset flights to catch the golden hour over the Alps. The final approach to SAW often involves a loop over the Sea of Marmara, giving the right side a front-row seat to the historic skyline and the Bosphorus Strait bridges.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🏰

Ardennes Forest

Dense, hilly woodlands stretching across the borders of Belgium and Luxembourg.

🏔️

Northern Alpine Range

Dramatic views of the limestone peaks in southern Germany and northern Austria.

🏙️

Sofia Cityscape

The Bulgarian capital visible as the flight traverses the Balkan Peninsula.

🌊

Black Sea Coastline

The deep blue waters of the Black Sea meeting the northern edges of the Thrace region.

🚜

Thracian Plains

Expansive agricultural fields of Turkey's European landmass before the final descent.

The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct glare while viewing the European landscape. Watch for the northern coastline of Istanbul as you approach SAW, especially if the plane enters a holding pattern over the Black Sea.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 2,204 km (1,370 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 56 min

Departure: BRU (50.9014015198, 4.48443984985)

Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)

Route Type: International

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