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GNY → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Şanlıurfa GAP Airport (Sanliurfa) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Istanbul Bosphorus and the Black Sea coastline during the final approach, which is often the highlight of this route.
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Eastern Taurus Mountains
Rugged and dramatic mountain ridges that define the landscape of the Upper Mesopotamia region.
Kızılırmak River
The 'Red River' curves elegantly through the heart of Turkey, visible as a long winding silver thread.
Bolu Mountains
Lush green forests and misty ridges as the flight moves from the dry steppe into the humid Black Sea region.
The Bosphorus Strait
On clear days, see the iconic waterway separating Europe and Asia, including the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge.
Istanbul Skyline
A sweeping view of the city's northern expansion and the dense urban fabric as you align for landing at IST.
The right side is highly recommended for the approach into Istanbul Airport. Depending on the wind, planes often circle over the Black Sea, providing a panoramic view of the Bosphorus. For evening flights, the city lights reflecting off the strait are spectacular.
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Atatürk Dam & Reservoir
Shortly after takeoff, view one of the world's largest earth-fill dams and the massive blue reservoir on the Euphrates.
Mount Erciyes
Look for the snow-capped peak of this massive stratovolcano near Kayseri as you cross Central Anatolia.
Sapanca Lake
A beautiful freshwater lake situated between Adapazarı and Izmit, visible during the initial descent phase.
Gulf of Izmit
Industrial landscapes and busy shipping lanes where the Marmara Sea narrows toward the east.
Sit on the left if you want to see the massive scale of the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP) dams right after departure. Afternoon flights are better on this side to avoid the harsh southern sun glare while viewing the Anatolian plateau.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 970 km (603 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min
Departure: GNY (37.445663, 38.895592)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: Domestic
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