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GUW destination photo
IST destination photo

GUWIST

Which side of the plane to sit from Atyrau Airport (Atyrau) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the majestic Caucasus Mountains and a high probability of seeing the iconic Istanbul skyline and Bosphorus Strait during the final approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🌊

Caspian Sea Horizon

Stunning views of the northern Caspian Sea's turquoise waters shortly after departing Atyrau.

🏔️

Greater Caucasus Range

Dramatic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus, often including sightings of Georgia's rugged terrain.

🏖️

Turkish Black Sea Coast

A long stretch of the lush, mountainous northern coastline of Turkey as the plane heads toward Istanbul.

🌉

Bosphorus Strait

Depending on the wind and runway, you may see the waterway separating Europe and Asia.

🕌

Istanbul Old City

Breathtaking views of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque if the flight path tracks south before landing.

Book a window seat ahead of the wing for unobstructed views of the Caucasus. Morning flights are ideal to have the sun behind you, illuminating the mountains. For the best Istanbul city views, hope for a 'Landing South' configuration which often circles the city center.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🐍

Ural River Delta

The intricate winding paths of the Ural River as it meets the Caspian Sea right after takeoff.

🌾

Russian Steppes

The vast, flat agricultural landscapes of Southern Russia and the Kuban region.

☁️

Northern Black Sea

An expansive view of the deep blue Black Sea, often seeing distant maritime vessels.

🏗️

Third Bosphorus Bridge

The Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge is often visible as the flight prepares to enter Istanbul's airspace.

🌳

Belgrade Forest

Large swathes of dense green forest located just north of the new Istanbul Airport.

The right side is better for viewing the Ural River delta immediately after takeoff from Atyrau. On approach to IST, you'll get a great look at the Black Sea coastline and the massive infrastructure of the new airport, though you might miss the historic city center.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 1,942 km (1,207 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 35 min

Departure: GUW (47.12189865112305, 51.8213996887207)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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