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BSR → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Basrah International Airport (Basrah) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic landscapes of Eastern Turkey, including the majestic Lake Van and the rugged peaks of the Eastern Taurus range, concluding with a likely view of the Bosporus Strait upon arrival.
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Tigris River
The eastern branch of the twin rivers of Mesopotamia, winding through northern Iraq.
Eastern Taurus Mountains
Stunning, rugged mountain peaks that are frequently snow-covered from autumn through late spring.
Lake Van
Turkey's largest lake, famous for its intense soda-blue water and surrounding volcanic peaks.
Bosporus Strait
The iconic waterway dividing Europe and Asia, often visible during the final approach pattern.
Black Sea Coastline
Lush green forests and dark blue waters as the plane aligns for its final descent into Istanbul.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to see the terrain illuminated. This side provides the best chance to see Lake Van, one of the most scenic features in Turkey. If the flight path approaches IST from the north, you will get an incredible view of the Third Bosporus Bridge and the Black Sea entrance.
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Mesopotamian Plains
Vast desert landscapes and ancient agricultural patterns of the western Fertile Crescent.
Euphrates River
Aerial views of the historical river meandering through the arid landscape of western Iraq.
Central Anatolian Plateau
The high altitude interior of Turkey with its unique geological formations and steppe terrain.
Lake Tuz
A massive white salt lake that glows brilliantly under the sun during clear weather.
Istanbul European Side
As you descend into IST, catch glimpses of the historic peninsula and the dense urban core.
To avoid harsh glare, the left side is preferable on afternoon flights when the sun is in the south. Watch for the dramatic color shift from the tan Iraqi deserts to the greener, mountainous terrain of Turkey. Keep your camera ready for the white expanse of Lake Tuz about 45 minutes before landing.
Get eSIMs for Iraq
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 2,072 km (1,287 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 46 min
Departure: BSR (30.54910087585449, 47.66210174560547)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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