FRU → IST

Tian Shan Range

Dramatic departure views of the snow-capped Kyrgyz Ala-Too mountains directly south of Bishkek.

Kyzylkum Desert

Vast stretches of red sand and arid landscapes as the plane crosses Central Asia.

Caspian Crossing

A long stretch over the deep blue waters of the world's largest inland body of water.

Mount Ararat

The majestic, snow-covered volcanic cone, famous for its association with Noah's Ark.

Lake Van

A massive, high-altitude turquoise soda lake surrounded by rugged eastern Turkish peaks.

Istanbul Approach

Views of the Sea of Marmara and the Prince Islands if landing from the south.

Chuy Valley

The fertile plains and agricultural patterns surrounding the Kyrgyz capital.

Aral Sea Basin

Observations of the ecological changes in the northern reaches of the Aral depression.

Baku Coastline

The modern skyline of Azerbaijan's capital and the oil rigs of the Caspian Sea.

Greater Caucasus

Distant but clear views of the massive Caucasus range, including the 5,642m Mount Elbrus.

Black Sea Coast

The lush, green northern coastline of Turkey meeting the deep dark waters.

Bosphorus Strait

The geographic divide between Europe and Asia, visible during the final descent into IST.