Loading map...
ESB → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Esenboğa International Airport (Ankara) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the lush Bolu mountain ranges, the serene Sapanca Lake, and a spectacular approach over the Prince Islands and Istanbul's Asian coastline.
Köroğlu Mountains
Rugged, forested peaks near Bolu which are often capped with snow during the winter months.
Sapanca Lake
A stunning turquoise freshwater lake situated between the mountains and the Gulf of Izmit.
Izmit Bay
The dense industrial heartland of Turkey with vast shipyards and refineries visible along the northern shore.
Prince Islands
Clear views of Büyükada and Heybeliada floating in the Sea of Marmara during the base leg of the approach.
Istanbul Skyline
The dense urban sprawl and skyscrapers of the Kartal and Pendik districts just before touchdown at SAW.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. Pay close attention about 10-15 minutes before landing for the best views of Sapanca Lake and the Prince Islands archipelago.
Ankara Cityscape
Panoramic views of the capital city's western expansion and the distant Atakule tower during climb-out.
Sakarya River Bends
The winding silver ribbon of the Sakarya River as it snakes through the Anatolian plains.
Samanlı Mountains
Rolling green ridges that define the transition from the central plateau to the Marmara region.
Osmangazi Bridge
A distant but clear view of the massive suspension bridge spanning the Gulf of Izmit.
Marmara Sea Traffic
Dozens of cargo ships and tankers anchored in the sparkling waters of the Marmara Sea during final descent.
Sit on the left for sunset flights to catch the golden hour over the Marmara Sea. This side is also better for spotting the impressive Osmangazi Bridge in the distance as you pass the Yalova coastline.
Distance: 323 km (201 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 32 min
Departure: ESB (40.1281013489, 32.995098114)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.