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ERZ → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Erzurum International Airport (Erzurum) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most iconic views of Istanbul's historic peninsula, the Bosphorus Strait, and the Anatolian mountain ranges during the descent.
Palandöken Mountains
Breathtaking views of the rugged, snow-capped peaks surrounding Erzurum immediately after takeoff.
Anatolian Plateau
Expansive vistas of the rolling steppes and agricultural mosaics of central Turkey.
Bosphorus Strait
On the standard approach to IST, you can see the shimmering waterway separating Europe and Asia.
Historic Peninsula
Aerial perspective of the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace during the landing pattern.
Istanbul Skyline
The dense urban landscape and skyscrapers of the Levent and Maslak districts.
Book a window seat in front of the wing for unobstructed views of the Bosphorus. On afternoon flights, be prepared for some sun glare as you head west, but the 'Golden Hour' views of the city skyline during descent are unparalleled.
Pontic Alps
Distances views of the North Anatolian Mountains and their lush, green slopes.
Black Sea Coastline
Dramatic views of the coastline as the flight tracks toward the Marmara region.
Zonguldak Ports
Industrial coastal views and cargo ships dotting the Black Sea near the Karabük region.
Belgrade Forest
The vast green lung of Istanbul visible just before the final approach into the airport.
IST Terminal
An impressive overhead view of the massive, modern architecture of Istanbul Airport.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the sun. It offers a cooler, more natural color palette featuring the Black Sea. This side is also best for seeing the sheer scale of the new Istanbul Airport (IST) during the final banking turns.
Distance: 1,057 km (657 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: ERZ (39.9565010071, 41.17020034789999)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: Domestic
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