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GVA โ IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Geneva Cointrin International Airport (Geneva) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an exceptional perspective of the Swiss Alps chain immediately after takeoff and provides the most dramatic views of the Black Sea coastline during the approach into Istanbul.
Lake Geneva
The full crescent shape of Lac Lรฉman and the city of Geneva are visible shortly after departure.
Bernese Oberland
Stunning views of the Eiger, Mรถnch, and Jungfrau peaks to the north of the flight path.
Julian Alps
The rugged limestone peaks of Slovenia, including Mount Triglav, visible during the mid-flight segment.
Balkan Mountains
The Stara Planina range stretching across Bulgaria provides a dramatic landscape before the descent.
Black Sea Approach
Final approach often follows the northern Turkish coastline, offering views of the deep blue Black Sea.
For the best photography of the Alps, choose a seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Morning flights (07:00-10:00) provide the best lighting for the Swiss landscape without the glare of the southern sun. Keep an eye out for the Bosphorus bridges during the final descent into IST.
Mont Blanc
Europe's highest peak is often clearly visible to the south within the first 15 minutes of flight.
Po Valley
The vast, fertile plains of Northern Italy and the winding Po River are visible to the south.
Adriatic Sea
Distant views of the turquoise waters and the jagged coastline of Croatia.
Dinaric Alps
The extensive mountain chain running through the Balkans offers a harsh, beautiful karst landscape.
Sea of Marmara
On the final approach, hundreds of cargo ships anchored in the Marmara Sea can be seen south of Istanbul.
The right side is superior for spotting Mont Blanc shortly after takeoff from GVA. On afternoon flights, this side can be quite sunny, so keep your window shade ready. During winter months, the snow-covered Dinaric Alps are particularly striking from this vantage point.
Distance: 1,893 km (1,176 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 31 min
Departure: GVA (46.23809814453125, 6.108950138092041)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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