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ERZ destination photo
IST destination photo

ERZIST

Our Recommendation
8.8

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

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.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

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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