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ERZ → ESB
Which side of the plane to sit from Erzurum International Airport (Erzurum) to Esenboğa International Airport (Ankara)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the dramatic Palandöken mountain range immediately after takeoff and a higher probability of seeing the Ankara city skyline during the final descent into Esenboğa.
Palandöken Mountains
Stunning views of Erzurum's famous ski peaks immediately after takeoff from the high-altitude plateau.
Munzur Range
The rugged, jagged peaks of the Munzur mountains are visible to the south as you cruise over Eastern Anatolia.
Sivas High Plateaus
The vast, golden agricultural plains and rolling hills surrounding Sivas provide a patchwork landscape.
Kızılırmak Tributaries
Small streams and seasonal riverbeds carving through the arid landscape of the Central Anatolian plateau.
Ankara Cityscape
On many approach patterns, you can spot the Atakule tower and the dense urban layout of the capital city.
Secure an 'A' window seat for the best experience. Early morning flights are ideal as the sun rises behind the plane, illuminating the Palandöken peaks in gold. During winter, the snow cover makes the Munzur mountains exceptionally photogenic. Watch for the sudden transition from rugged mountains to the flatter steppe as you pass Sivas.
Karasu River Valley
Follow the path of one of the Euphrates' primary branches as it meanders through narrow mountain passes.
Pontic Alps
On clear days, the distant northern mountain ranges separating Central Anatolia from the Black Sea are visible.
Kızılırmak Curve
View the 'Red River,' Turkey's longest, as it makes its massive characteristic loop through the heart of Anatolia.
Kırıkkale Industrial Zone
Spot the significant industrial complexes and refineries that mark the approach toward the capital region.
Anatolian Steppe
Observe the unique geology and vast, open spaces typical of the dry, elevated interior of Turkey.
Choose an 'F' window seat to avoid the direct southern sun glare during midday flights. This side is particularly interesting for geography enthusiasts who want to track the Kızılırmak River. The best views of the distant northern ranges occur in late spring when the peaks are still snow-capped but the valleys are green.
Distance: 696 km (432 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 10 min
Departure: ERZ (39.9565010071, 41.17020034789999)
Arrival: ESB (40.1281013489, 32.995098114)
Route Type: Domestic
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