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GYD destination photo
ESB destination photo

GYDESB

Our Recommendation
8.8

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

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.

Top Activities in Ankara
Route Information

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

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