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DUS → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Düsseldorf Airport (Duesseldorf) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior vantage point for the snow-capped Austrian Alps and the iconic urban sprawl of Istanbul, including the Bosphorus and Marmara Sea during standard landing patterns.
Black Forest & Swabia
Lush green hilly terrain of Southern Germany early in the flight.
Austrian Alps
The absolute highlight, featuring jagged peaks and glacial valleys, usually visible about 45-60 minutes into the flight.
Balkan Mountains
Rugged, less-traveled mountain ranges stretching across Bulgaria and Serbia.
Sea of Marmara
Cargo ships queuing for the Bosphorus Strait visible during the extended descent phase.
Istanbul Panorama
A breathtaking view of the bridges, historical peninsula, and the dense urban fabric of Istanbul before turning for final approach.
Choose a window seat behind the wing to ensure the Alps aren't blocked. If the flight arrives from the south, this side offers the best chance to see the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Morning flights on this side may experience sun glare, so bring sunglasses.
Ruhr Metropolis
Aerial view of the industrial heart of Germany immediately after takeoff from Düsseldorf.
Frankfurt Skyline
Occasional distant views of the 'Mainhattan' skyscrapers as the flight heads southeast.
Danube River
The winding path of Europe's second-longest river through Hungary and Serbia.
Pannonian Basin
The vast, flat agricultural landscapes of Central Europe stretching toward the horizon.
Black Sea Coastline
As the plane approaches Istanbul from the northwest, the dark blue waters of the Black Sea become visible.
The left side is ideal for evening flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. It offers better views of the Black Sea coastline during the final descent into Istanbul Airport, which is located very close to the northern coast.
Distance: 2,011 km (1,250 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 41 min
Departure: DUS (51.289501, 6.766780000000001)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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