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FIH → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Ndjili International Airport (Kinshasa) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior vantage point for the volcanic Tibesti Mountains in the Sahara and typically offers the most iconic views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul's historic skyline during the final approach.
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Tibesti Mountains
Dramatic volcanic peaks and dark rock formations rising sharply from the Saharan sands in northern Chad.
Lake Chad
The unique landscape of this historic lake, where the Sahel meets the desert, visible on the eastern horizon.
Turkish Riviera
The turquoise waters and rugged cliffs of the Antalya region as the aircraft enters Turkish airspace.
The Bosphorus
The iconic strait separating Europe and Asia, featuring the bridges and the Golden Horn during the approach to IST.
Istanbul Skyline
A breathtaking view of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the dense urban landscape of the historic peninsula.
Select a window on the right side for the best Saharan contrast. For the most impressive arrival, the right side usually provides the classic 'Bosphorus view' when the aircraft approaches Istanbul from the south. Morning flights are recommended for the best lighting on the desert terrain.
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Congo River Basin
Aerial views of the massive, winding Congo River and the surrounding dense tropical rainforest shortly after departure.
Western Sahara Ergs
Expansive views of rolling orange sand dunes as the flight crosses the heart of the Saharan desert.
Island of Crete
Clear views of the rugged coastline and mountainous interior of Greece's largest island as you cross the Mediterranean.
Mediterranean Horizon
Perfect positioning for observing the sun setting over the water during evening or late-afternoon flights.
The left side is ideal if you are flying in the late afternoon, as it offers a spectacular view of the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea. It also provides better views of the Greek archipelago if the flight path tracks slightly west.
Get eSIMs for Congo (Kinshasa)
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 5,254 km (3,265 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 11 min
Departure: FIH (-4.38575, 15.4446)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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