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ECN → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Ercan International Airport (Nicosia) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Kyrenia mountain range upon departure, the dramatic Taurus Mountains during the transit over mainland Turkey, and the iconic Prince Islands during the final approach into Istanbul.
Kyrenia Mountains
The jagged limestone peaks of the Pentadaktylos (Five Finger) range stretching along the northern coast of Cyprus.
Cilician Sea
The deep blue stretch of the Mediterranean separating Cyprus from the southern coast of Turkey.
Western Taurus Range
Snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain as the flight crosses from the coast into Central Anatolia.
Lake Beyşehir
Turkey's largest freshwater lake, visible as a sprawling blue expanse amidst the Anatolian landscape.
Prince Islands
The cluster of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara, providing a stunning visual just before touchdown at Sabiha Gökçen.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Northern Cyprus coastline immediately after takeoff. For evening flights, this side catches the sunset over the Marmara Sea. During descent, look for the distinctive silhouettes of Büyükada and Heybeliada islands.
Mersin Port
Views of one of the largest Mediterranean ports and the sprawling urban coastline of southern Turkey.
Anatolian Plateau
The vast, golden-hued agricultural heartland of Turkey, featuring seasonal geometric crop patterns.
Bolkar Mountains
Impressive high-altitude mountain massifs within the Central Taurus range.
Osmangazi Bridge
The massive suspension bridge crossing the Gulf of Izmit, visible during the final stages of the approach.
Istanbul Asian Side
Dense urban sprawl of the Pendik and Tuzla districts as the aircraft aligns with the SAW runway.
The right side is ideal for seeing the industrial heart of the Marmara region and the impressive Osmangazi Bridge. In the morning, this side receives direct sunlight, which can be bright; use the window shade if needed until the descent begins.
Distance: 736 km (457 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 14 min
Departure: ECN (35.15470123291016, 33.49610137939453)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: International
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