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ESB → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Esenboğa International Airport (Ankara) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side provides a superior panoramic view of Istanbul's Historic Peninsula, the Princes' Islands, and the expansive Sea of Marmara during the standard approach to Istanbul Airport.
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Ankara Cityscape
Aerial view of the sprawling capital city and Anıtkabir shortly after takeoff from Esenboğa.
Lake Sapanca
A large, picturesque freshwater lake surrounded by lush green mountains in the Sakarya province.
Gulf of Izmit
View of the busy shipping lanes and industrial landscape of the eastern Sea of Marmara.
Princes' Islands
The beautiful archipelago off the coast of Istanbul, including Büyükada and Heybeliada.
Historic Peninsula
Iconic views of the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace during a southern approach.
For the most dramatic views, book a flight arriving in the late afternoon; the sun reflects off the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn, creating a golden silhouette of the city's minarets. On clear days, the entire Marmara coastline is visible from your window.
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Bolu Forests
Dense, mountainous pine forests of the Western Black Sea region, often covered in mist or snow.
Black Sea Coast
The rugged northern coastline of Turkey where the green mountains meet the deep blue sea.
Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge
The third and northernmost bridge across the Bosphorus, connecting Europe and Asia.
New Istanbul Airport
A massive aerial perspective of the airport's tulip-inspired control tower and vast terminal complex.
Köroğlu Mountains
The high peaks of the western Pontic range, offering dramatic shadows during morning flights.
The right side is ideal for nature enthusiasts. Watch for the 'sea of clouds' that often blankets the Bolu mountains. If the plane approaches IST from the north (Black Sea), you will get a perfect view of the Bosphorus' northern mouth and the Black Sea shoreline.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 380 km (236 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: ESB (40.1281013489, 32.995098114)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: Domestic
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