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DUS → EBL
Which side of the plane to sit from Düsseldorf Airport (Duesseldorf) to Erbil International Airport (Erbil)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the snow-capped Austrian Alps early in the journey and spectacular views of the Taurus Mountains and Lake Van during the transit across Turkey.
Austrian & Bavarian Alps
About 45-60 minutes into the flight, enjoy sweeping views of the northern edge of the Alps.
The Bosphorus Strait
Watch for the shimmering divide between Europe and Asia as you fly near the vicinity of Istanbul.
Taurus Mountains
Cross the rugged, limestone peaks of central Turkey, which offer dramatic shadows and textures.
Lake Van
A major highlight; view the vibrant turquoise waters of Turkey's largest lake and its surrounding volcanoes.
Zagros Mountains
The final approach into Erbil takes you over the dramatic, folded ridges of the Iraqi-Turkish border.
Erbil Citadel
On final descent, look for the ancient, circular UNESCO World Heritage site in the center of Erbil.
The right side is unbeatable for mountain enthusiasts. Aim for a window seat behind the wing to capture Lake Van's scale. Afternoon flights offer a golden hour glow over the Zagros Mountains, making for incredible photography. Be aware that the sun will be on this side for most of the southbound journey, so keep your window shade ready.
Rhine River Bend
Immediately after takeoff, witness the winding Rhine River and the industrial heart of the Ruhr region.
Cologne Cathedral
If the flight path banks south early, the twin spires of the Kölner Dom are often visible in the distance.
Black Sea Coast
On many flight paths, you will track along the southern coast of the Black Sea, offering views of the Turkish shoreline.
Pontic Mountains
Look down at the lush, green, and often cloud-shrouded peaks of the Kaçkar range in Northern Turkey.
Mount Ararat
Depending on the specific airway, the legendary snow-capped peak of Ararat may be visible on the far horizon.
Sit on the left if you are flying during the morning to avoid the direct southern sun. This side provides the best perspective of the Black Sea's deep blue transition into the Turkish coastline. Keep an eye out for the historic city of Samsun as you enter Turkish airspace.
Distance: 3,373 km (2,096 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 58 min
Departure: DUS (51.289501, 6.766780000000001)
Arrival: EBL (36.23759841918945, 43.96319961547852)
Route Type: International
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