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GZT → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Gaziantep International Airport (Gaziantep) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the Central Anatolian salt lakes and the scenic transition into the Sea of Marmara during the final approach to Istanbul.
Taurus Mountain Foothills
Rugged limestone peaks and tectonic ridges visible shortly after takeoff from Gaziantep.
Lake Tuz (Tuz Gölü)
The vast white expanse of one of the world's largest hyper-saline lakes is visible to the south mid-flight.
Central Anatolian Plateau
Expansive golden steppes and geometric agricultural patterns across the heart of Turkey.
Sea of Marmara
Panoramic views of the deep blue waters and the coastline during the descent phase.
Princes' Islands
On clear days during final approach, the cluster of islands can be spotted in the distance to the west.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the shimmering white surface of Lake Tuz. For morning flights, this side avoids direct sun glare. During the descent into SAW, keep an eye out for the Gulf of Izmit and the Marmara coastline, which are particularly stunning at sunset.
Gaziantep Cityscape
A view of the historic city and its industrial zones immediately after departure.
Anatolian Crossroads
The geographic intersection of historic trade routes winding through the rolling hills of the interior.
Sakarya River Valley
Lush green hills and the winding path of the Sakarya River as the plane approaches the Marmara region.
Gebze Industrial Hub
A bird's-eye view of the massive logistics and industrial infrastructure characterizing Istanbul's eastern periphery.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as it provides soft lighting over the Anatolian interior without harsh glare. It offers a more detailed look at the dense urban development of the Asian side of Istanbul during the final moments before landing.
Distance: 832 km (517 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: GZT (36.9472007751, 37.4786987305)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: Domestic
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