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ECN → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Ercan International Airport (Nicosia) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is preferred for its immediate views of the Pentadaktylos mountain range in Cyprus and the panoramic perspective of the Bosphorus and Asian Istanbul during the descent.
Five Finger Mountains
Dramatic close-up views of the Kyrenia Range's rugged limestone ridges immediately after takeoff.
Mersin Coastline
Visuals of the major Mediterranean port city and the southern Turkish industrial plains.
Anatolian Plateau
The vast, golden expanse of central Turkey's interior highlands stretching toward the horizon.
Bosphorus Bridges
The iconic suspension bridges connecting Europe and Asia are frequently visible during the descent into IST.
Asian Istanbul
High-rise developments and the sprawling residential districts of Kadıköy and Üsküdar.
The right side is unbeatable for the takeoff phase out of ECN, offering direct views of the Kyrenia mountain range. On approach to Istanbul Airport, this side typically offers the best view of the Bosphorus Strait. Morning flights are ideal for this side to avoid direct sun glare while photographying the Anatolian landscape.
Northern Cyprus Coast
Panoramic views of the Morphou Bay and the western coastline during the initial climb out of Ercan.
Western Taurus Mountains
Jagged limestone peaks of the Toros range, often snow-capped during winter and spring months.
Lake Eğirdir
A beautiful turquoise freshwater lake nestled in the mountains of southwestern Turkey.
Sultanahmet District
Views of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque if the flight path tracks over the historic peninsula.
Sea of Marmara
Cargo ships and the Princes' Islands are visible as the aircraft prepares for its final approach.
Choose the left side for sunset views on evening flights and the best chance to see the historic European side of Istanbul. During descent, look for the Marmara coastlines which provide a clear sense of the city's vast scale.
Distance: 797 km (495 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: ECN (35.15470123291016, 33.49610137939453)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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