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HAJ destination photo
IST destination photo

HAJIST

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

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the dramatic Carpathian Mountains and provides the most iconic vantage point for the Bosphorus Strait and the Black Sea coastline during the approach into Istanbul.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏰

Prague & Central Bohemia

Clear views of the Vltava River winding through the Czech capital and surrounding historical landscapes.

🏔️

Transylvanian Alps

Dramatic, jagged peaks of the Southern Carpathians in Romania, often snow-capped until late spring.

🌊

Black Sea Coast

The deep blue waters of the Black Sea meet the rugged northern coastline of Turkey as you begin your descent.

🌉

Bosphorus Strait

On standard northern approaches, you will see the famous waterway dividing Europe and Asia, dotted with cargo ships.

Sit on the left for the best chance to see the sunset over Europe on evening flights. When approaching IST from the north, this side provides an unbeatable view of the city's historic peninsula and the bridges connecting the two continents. Early morning flights offer crisp light on the Romanian mountains.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🌲

Harz Mountains

Quickly after takeoff from HAJ, enjoy views of Northern Germany's highest mountain range and dense forests.

💧

Lake Balaton

Central Europe's largest freshwater lake appears as a turquoise jewel in the middle of the Hungarian plains.

🏙️

Belgrade

The Serbian capital is visible at the junction where the Sava and Danube rivers meet.

⛰️

Balkan Mountains

Rugged ridges stretching across Bulgaria, offering textured terrain views during the cruise phase.

⚓

Sea of Marmara

View the southern waters of Istanbul, filled with numerous vessels waiting to enter the Bosphorus.

The right side is ideal for tracking the Danube River's path through several countries. If the plane lands from the south, this side offers a better view of the massive new Istanbul Airport infrastructure and the Marmara shoreline. Use a window seat behind the wing to avoid engine glare for photography.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 1,900 km (1,181 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 32 min

Departure: HAJ (52.461101532, 9.68507957458)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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