Loading map...
GYD → ESB
Which side of the plane to sit from Heydar Aliyev International Airport (Baku) to Esenboğa International Airport (Ankara)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers unparalleled views of the snow-capped Greater Caucasus range and the rugged Pontic Mountains of Northern Turkey.
Greater Caucasus Peaks
Stunning, close-up views of some of Europe's highest permanent glaciers and jagged summits.
Tbilisi Vista
As you cross the Georgian border, the capital city is often visible nestled in the Mtkvari valley.
Kaçkar Mountains
The greenest and most alpine part of Turkey, featuring dramatic glaciated valleys.
Black Sea Glimpses
The hazy blue line of the Black Sea can often be seen to the north over the coastal ranges.
Anatolian Steppe
The unique, ochre-colored landscapes of central Turkey as the plane approaches Esenboğa.
The right side is the clear winner for mountain lovers. Try to book a flight in the early morning to see the sun illuminate the northern faces of the Caucasus. In winter, the entire route is a spectacular white landscape. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff from GYD for the best mountain views.
Absheron Peninsula
Dramatic views of the Caspian Sea coastline and oil infrastructure as you depart Baku.
Lesser Caucasus
Rolling ridges and high-altitude plateaus spanning across southern Azerbaijan and Georgia.
Kura River
The silver ribbon of the Caucasus' longest river winding through the dry plains below.
Mount Ararat
On very clear days, the distant, iconic twin peaks of Ararat may be visible far to the south.
Ankara Suburbs
The sprawling residential outskirts of the Turkish capital during the final descent.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights and a chance to spot the distant peaks of the Armenian Highlands. This side is better if you prefer seeing the vastness of the Anatolian plateau and the industrial landscape of the Caspian coast.
Distance: 1,444 km (897 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 56 min
Departure: GYD (40.46749877929688, 50.04669952392578)
Arrival: ESB (40.1281013489, 32.995098114)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.