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DWC → SOF
Which side of the plane to sit from Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai) to Sofia Airport (Sofia)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an exceptional view of the rugged Zagros Mountains in Iran, the deep blue waters of Lake Van in Eastern Turkey, and the spectacular crossing of the Bosphorus Strait near Istanbul.
Dubai Skyline
Shortly after takeoff from DWC, look back for distant views of the Burj Khalifa and the impressive Dubai coastline.
Zagros Mountains
Stunning, snow-capped folded mountain ranges in Western Iran that create a rhythmic, wave-like landscape from above.
Lake Van
The largest lake in Turkey, known for its brilliant turquoise color and surrounding volcanic peaks.
The Bosphorus
One of the world's most strategic waterways, showing the bridges connecting Asia and Europe and the dense city of Istanbul.
The Balkan Range
The vast 'Stara Planina' mountains stretching across Bulgaria, visible as the plane enters Bulgarian airspace.
The right side is significantly better for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. The highlight of this route is the transit over Istanbul; even at high altitudes, the Bosphorus is clearly visible. In winter, the Zagros mountains are heavily snow-covered, offering incredible high-contrast photography opportunities.
Kuwait City
Aerial views of the Kuwaiti coastline and the distinct urban sprawl of the capital city along the Persian Gulf.
Mesopotamian Plains
The historic landscape of southern Iraq, where the Tigris and Euphrates rivers meet the desert sands.
Taurus Mountains
The southern ridges of the Taurus range providing a dramatic rocky backdrop during the transit over Southern Turkey.
Sea of Marmara
A clear view of the inland sea that separates the Anatolian and European parts of Turkey.
Rila Mountains
Home to the highest peaks in the Balkans, visible to the south during the final approach into Sofia.
Choose the left side for sunset views on evening flights. During the descent into Sofia, the left side often provides a great perspective of the Vitosha Mountain and the southern suburbs of the city. Use a polarizer filter if photographing through the window to reduce glare from the desert sun.
Distance: 3,506 km (2,179 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 7 min
Departure: DWC (24.896356, 55.161389)
Arrival: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)
Route Type: International
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