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DIY → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Diyarbakir Airport (Diyabakir) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning progression from the historical Tigris River basin to the dramatic volcanic peaks of Central Anatolia, culminating in a beautiful approach over the Sea of Marmara and the Prince Islands.
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Tigris River
Witness the winding path of one of Mesopotamia's most significant rivers immediately after takeoff from Diyarbakir.
Mount Erciyes
A massive dormant stratovolcano near Kayseri, providing a snow-capped spectacle in the middle of the Anatolian plateau.
Tuz Gölü
Look south to see the vast, shimmering white surface of Turkey's second-largest lake, one of the world's saltiest.
Sea of Marmara
On descent, the deep blue waters contrast sharply with the industrial and urban landscape of the Yalova coastline.
Prince Islands
A cluster of nine islands off the coast of Istanbul, visible just before touchdown at Sabiha Gökçen.
Choose an afternoon flight to have the sun behind you for clearer photos of Central Anatolia. The approach into SAW from the south is common, making the left side superior for seeing the coastline and islands. In winter, Mount Erciyes is particularly photogenic.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Keban Dam Lake
Shortly after takeoff, view the massive turquoise reservoir of the Keban Dam on the Euphrates River.
Taurus Mountains
The rugged, jagged ridges of the Southeastern Taurus range provide a dramatic backdrop to the start of the journey.
Ankara Skyline
Depending on the specific airway, the sprawling capital city can often be seen in the distance to the north.
Kocaeli Forests
Lush green mountain ranges as the plane nears the Marmara region, especially vibrant in spring.
Osmangazi Bridge
During the final descent phase, you can often spot this massive suspension bridge crossing the Gulf of Izmit.
Best for early morning flights to see the sunrise hitting the Taurus Mountains. Keep an eye out for the Keban Dam about 15-20 minutes after takeoff; it is one of Turkey's most impressive engineering feats. If the plane loops north for landing, you may catch a glimpse of the Black Sea.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 993 km (617 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min
Departure: DIY (37.893901825, 40.2010002136)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: Domestic
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