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HTY destination photo
IST destination photo

HTY โ†’ IST

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

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior primarily for the approach into Istanbul Airport (IST). Most arrival patterns offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the Marmara Sea, the Princes' Islands, and the historical peninsula including the Hagia Sophia and the Bosphorus bridges.

Left Side Highlights
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Gulf of Iskenderun

Clear views of the Mediterranean coastline and the port of Iskenderun shortly after departure.

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Western Taurus Peaks

Aerial perspective of the rugged Bolkar and AladaฤŸlar mountain ranges during the climb.

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Tuz Gรถlรผ (Salt Lake)

The massive white salt flats of Central Anatolia are often visible depending on the flight corridor.

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Princes' Islands

The cluster of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara as the plane begins its final descent.

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Historical Peninsula

Spectacular views of the Sultanahmet area, the Golden Horn, and the iconic Istanbul skyline.

Book an afternoon flight to have the sun behind you for better photography. During the final 15 minutes of flight, keep your camera ready for the Bosphorus bridges. If the plane approaches from the south, you will see the entire city layout.

Right Side Highlights
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Amanus Mountains

Steep ridges of the Nur Mountains bordering the Amik Valley immediately after takeoff.

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Cukurova Plain

The vast green agricultural patchwork of the Adana region's fertile lowlands.

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Ankara Skyline

Distant views of Turkey's capital city and its surrounding high-altitude plateau.

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Lake Sapanca

A beautiful freshwater lake nestled between the mountains and the Marmara region.

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Black Sea Coast

The lush green forests of northern Istanbul meeting the dark waters of the Black Sea.

The right side is excellent for early morning flights as the rising sun beautifully illuminates the Taurus Mountains. During landing, you will get a better view of the massive scale of the new Istanbul Airport terminal and the northern forests.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 850 km (528 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min

Departure: HTY (36.36277771, 36.282222747800006)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: Domestic

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