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EBB → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Entebbe International Airport (Entebbe) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a front-row seat to the Nile River's entire journey, from its source regions through the lush Sudd wetlands to the dramatic contrast of the Egyptian desert and the urban sprawl of Cairo.
Lake Victoria
Immediate views of the world's second-largest freshwater lake and its lush archipelago upon departure from Entebbe.
The Sudd Wetlands
One of the world's largest tropical wetlands in South Sudan, appearing as a massive green carpet of papyrus and reeds.
Khartoum Confluence
The distinct meeting point of the White Nile and Blue Nile rivers, where the two different water colors blend.
Lake Nasser & Aswan
The massive reservoir behind the High Dam, appearing as a bright blue jewel surrounded by stark orange desert.
Cairo & Giza
The sprawling Egyptian capital and, on clear days, the distant silhouette of the Great Pyramids on the desert's edge.
Bosphorus & Istanbul
Spectacular views of the Marmara Sea and the shipping lanes leading toward the Black Sea during the final approach.
The right side is essential for seeing the 'Lifeblood of Egypt.' For the best experience, book a daytime flight; night flights only show the concentrated lights of the Nile Valley. Ensure you have a window seat away from the wing to clearly see the narrow green strip of vegetation that borders the river through the desert.
Albertine Rift
Stunning views of the Western Rift Valley and the distant Blue Mountains of the DRC shortly after takeoff.
Libyan Desert
Mesmerizing, endless golden sand dunes and wind-sculpted rock formations across western Sudan and Egypt.
Qattara Depression
One of the lowest points in Africa, featuring dramatic salt pans and unique geological basins.
Mediterranean Horizon
A sharp transition from the scorched yellow of the Sahara to the deep sapphire of the Mediterranean Sea.
Aegean Archipelago
During the descent, views of scattered Greek and Turkish islands dotting the blue waters.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is superior for observing the abstract patterns of the Sahara's 'Great Sand Sea' and provides a smoother light for photography of the desert textures.
Distance: 4,600 km (2,858 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 25 min
Departure: EBB (0.042386, 32.443501)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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