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ESB → CGN
Which side of the plane to sit from Esenboğa International Airport (Ankara) to Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior mix of iconic landmarks, including the Bosphorus transition, the rugged Balkan peaks, and a distant panorama of the snow-capped Austrian Alps.
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Istanbul & Bosphorus
The breathtaking waterway separating Asia and Europe, often visible shortly after departure if the flight path tracks via the Marmara region.
Balkan Mountains
Dramatic aerial views of the Stara Planina range stretching across Bulgaria and Serbia.
The Austrian Alps
Distant but majestic views of the northern Alpine chain visible while cruising over Southern Germany.
Frankfurt Skyline
The distinctive skyscrapers of Germany's financial hub are frequently visible during the descent phase.
Rhine River Valley
Picturesque views of the winding Rhine River and its historic castles as the plane approaches the Cologne area.
On daytime flights, the sun will typically be on the south (left) side, so keep your window shade ready to manage glare. Early morning departures offer the most dramatic lighting over the Balkan terrain. Watch for the Bosphorus approximately 45-50 minutes into the flight.
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Black Sea Coast
The rugged northern coastline of Turkey, featuring the scenic cliffs near Zonguldak and Akçakoca.
Danube River
Multiple opportunities to spot the winding blue path of the Danube as the flight crosses Central Europe.
Carpathian Mountains
The rolling foothills of the Romanian and Hungarian Carpathians visible to the north during mid-flight.
Thuringian Forest
Vast expanses of deep green German forest land during the transition from Central to Western Germany.
Cologne Cathedral
The massive twin spires of the Kölner Dom are best viewed from this side during a southerly approach to Runway 32L/R.
The right side is ideal for travelers who prefer softer, indirect lighting and views of the Black Sea shortly after takeoff. If landing toward the northwest, this side provides the best view of the Cologne city center. Ensure you are looking out during the last 10 minutes for the cathedral.
Book Hotels in CologneDistance: 2,324 km (1,444 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 6 min
Departure: ESB (40.1281013489, 32.995098114)
Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)
Route Type: International
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