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CAI → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Cairo International Airport (Cairo) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the Mediterranean crossing, the island of Cyprus, the majestic Taurus Mountains, and the iconic Bosphorus Strait upon approach to Istanbul.
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Island of Cyprus
Enjoy a comprehensive aerial view of Cyprus, particularly the Kyrenia mountain range and the northern coastline.
Taurus Mountains
Dramatic views of the snow-capped peaks and rugged canyons of the Taurus range as you enter Turkish airspace.
Lake Tuz
A distant view of Turkey's second-largest lake, known for its high salinity and striking white salt flats.
Bosphorus & Istanbul Skyline
The premier highlight; see the bridges connecting Europe and Asia, the Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque during the final descent.
For the best experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Night flights on this side are spectacular as the city lights of Istanbul and the illuminated Bosphorus bridges come into view.
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Nile Delta & Alexandria
Witness the lush greenery of the Nile Delta meeting the Mediterranean, with distant views of Alexandria's coastline.
Rhodes & Aegean Isles
Catch glimpses of the Dodecanese islands, specifically Rhodes, scattered across the turquoise Aegean Sea.
Gallipoli Peninsula
On the descent, view the historic Dardanelles strait and the rugged terrain of the Gallipoli battlefield.
Sea of Marmara
Detailed views of the shipping lanes and the Princes' Islands as the plane maneuvers toward the European side.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during afternoon flights and potential views of the Greek islands. During the approach, this side often sees the Black Sea coastline if the flight circles before landing.
Get eSIMs for Egypt
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 1,263 km (785 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 41 min
Departure: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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