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ESB → MQM
Which side of the plane to sit from Esenboğa International Airport (Ankara) to Mardin Airport (Mardin)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the dramatic peak of Mount Erciyes and the unique volcanic landscapes of Cappadocia, which are iconic features of the Central Anatolian flight path.
Mount Erciyes
View the snow-capped stratovolcano near Kayseri, which dominates the horizon at high altitude.
Cappadocia
Glimpse the unique geological formations and reddish valleys of the Goreme region from above.
Anti-Taurus Mountains
Fly over the rugged limestone peaks of the Aladaglar range with its sharp ridges and deep valleys.
Euphrates River
See the historic Firat river as it winds through the Eastern Anatolian plateau.
Choose the left side for morning departures to have the sun behind the aircraft, providing perfect lighting for photos of Mount Erciyes. The mountain appears roughly 25-30 minutes into the flight. Watch for the change from flat plains to volcanic terrain shortly after leaving Ankara airspace.
Salt Lake (Tuz Golu)
A massive, brilliant white salt flat that reflects the sky like a giant mirror shortly after takeoff.
Atatürk Dam
One of the largest reservoirs in the world, appearing as a massive turquoise expanse on the Euphrates.
Mesopotamian Plains
The vast, fertile golden plains stretching toward the Syrian border as you approach Mardin.
Old Mardin City
The iconic stone architecture of the historic city visible on its rocky ridge during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the Mesopotamian horizon. Keep your eyes peeled for the bright white expanse of Tuz Golu within the first 15 minutes of flight. As you approach Mardin, the right side provides a broader view of the Syrian border plains.
Distance: 737 km (458 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 14 min
Departure: ESB (40.1281013489, 32.995098114)
Arrival: MQM (37.2233009338, 40.6316986084)
Route Type: Domestic
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