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GNY → ESB
Which side of the plane to sit from Şanlıurfa GAP Airport (Sanliurfa) to Esenboğa International Airport (Ankara)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic Anatolian geography, including the snow-capped peak of Mount Erciyes and the unique volcanic landscapes of the Cappadocia region.
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The Euphrates River
Aerial views of the historic river as it winds through the deep valleys of Southeastern Anatolia.
Nemrut Mountain Range
The high-altitude terrain surrounding the UNESCO-listed tumulus of Antiochus I.
Mount Erciyes
The massive, often snow-capped stratovolcano near Kayseri dominates the eastern horizon.
Cappadocia Region
The iconic 'fairy chimneys' and eroded volcanic valleys are visible as you cross Central Anatolia.
Anatolian Steppe
The beautiful golden and green geometric patterns of Central Turkey's agricultural heartland.
The right side is ideal for spotting the majestic Mount Erciyes, which is most visible in the late morning when the sun illuminates its eastern slopes. Look out for the Cappadocia region about 30-40 minutes into the flight; the distinct rock formations are easiest to spot with binoculars or a zoom lens. For the best photography of the Euphrates, choose an early morning flight to catch the mist in the valleys.
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Atatürk Dam Reservoir
One of the largest man-made lakes in the world, appearing as a deep blue expanse shortly after takeoff.
Anti-Taurus Mountains
Rugged limestone ridges that define the transition between the plains and the central plateau.
Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake)
Depending on the flight path, the brilliant white salt flats of Turkey's second-largest lake appear to the west.
Gölbaşı District
The scenic lakeside suburbs of Ankara visible during the final descent into the capital.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Atatürk Dam immediately after departure from GNY. During mid-day flights, the reflection of the sun off the Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake) can be blindingly white, so have sunglasses ready. Morning flights provide better lighting for the dam's turquoise waters.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 592 km (368 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 59 min
Departure: GNY (37.445663, 38.895592)
Arrival: ESB (40.1281013489, 32.995098114)
Route Type: Domestic
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