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DAR → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar Es Salaam) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers unparalleled views of Africa's highest peaks, the rugged Ethiopian Highlands, and the transition from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean, ending with a scenic approach into Istanbul over the Marmara Sea.
Mount Kilimanjaro
The snow-capped 'Roof of Africa' is often visible rising above the clouds shortly after takeoff from Dar Es Salaam.
Mount Kenya
Africa's second-highest peak provides a dramatic landmark as the flight traverses Kenyan airspace.
Ethiopian Highlands
Observe the deeply eroded canyons and high plateaus often referred to as the 'Roof of Northeast Africa'.
Suez Canal
A clear view of the vital waterway and ships queuing in the Gulf of Suez before entering the Mediterranean.
Istanbul Cityscape
A majestic approach often provides views of the Bosphorus, the Blue Mosque, and the Golden Horn before landing.
The right side is essential for peak bagging from the air; try to book a daylight flight (like TK604 if scheduled during the day) to see Kilimanjaro. Ensure your window is clean, as the sunrise over the Red Sea can be blindingly beautiful. On the approach to IST, this side typically offers the best view of the historic peninsula.
Lake Victoria
The western horizon reveals the massive expanse of Africa's largest tropical lake shortly after departure.
The Nile River
Stunning views of the White Nile as it meanders through South Sudan and Sudan toward the north.
Sahara Desert
Infinite stretches of orange and gold sand dunes visible across the Sudanese and Egyptian borders.
Cairo & Pyramids
Depending on the exact airway, the sprawling metropolis of Cairo and the Giza plateau can sometimes be spotted.
Antalya Coastline
The turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera come into view as the flight crosses the Mediterranean.
Choose the left side for sunset views if flying in the late afternoon. This side is also superior for viewing the vastness of the Sahara. In the winter months, the lower sun angle provides dramatic shadows over the desert landscape during the mid-flight segment.
Distance: 5,459 km (3,392 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 25 min
Departure: DAR (-6.87811, 39.202599)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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