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HAM → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Hamburg Airport (Hamburg) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior vantage point for the most iconic urban landmarks, including a clear view of Budapest's Danube embankment and the historic peninsula of Istanbul upon descent into Sabiha Gökçen.
Saxon Switzerland
Spectacular sandstone mountains and deep valleys along the German-Czech border visible shortly after passing Berlin.
Budapest Panorama
A prime view of the Hungarian Parliament Building and the historic bridges connecting Buda and Pest.
Balkan Mountains
Fly over the majestic Stara Planina range with its dramatic ridges and deep green forests in Bulgaria.
Sea of Marmara
Count the hundreds of cargo ships anchored in the blue waters waiting to transit the Bosphorus Strait.
Istanbul Peninsula
Glimpse the iconic minarets and the Golden Horn as the plane maneuvers for its final approach to SAW airport.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. During the final 15 minutes of flight, this side offers the best chance to see the Princess Islands and the sprawling urban density of Istanbul's Asian side as you descend toward Sabiha Gökçen.
Hamburg Port
Aerial views of Germany's Gateway to the World and the winding Elbe river shortly after departure.
Prague Cityscape
The red rooftops and historic bridges of the Czech capital are often visible on the left flight path.
Lake Balaton
The distinct turquoise hue of Central Europe's largest freshwater lake creates a striking contrast with the Hungarian landscape.
Belgrade Confluence
Spot the meeting point of the Sava and Danube rivers as the plane crosses into Serbian airspace.
Black Sea Coast
As you begin the descent, the rugged coastline where the Balkans meet the sea becomes visible.
Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the softest light over the Czech and Hungarian plains. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes after takeoff for the best views of the North German lowlands and the Elbe river.
Distance: 2,020 km (1,255 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 42 min
Departure: HAM (53.630401611328, 9.988229751586902)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: International
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