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HTY → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Hatay Airport (Hatay) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a more diverse visual experience, featuring the Mediterranean coastline upon departure and the iconic approach over the Marmara Sea and Princes' Islands into Istanbul.
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Gulf of Iskenderun
Immediate views of the Mediterranean coastline and the industrial port of Iskenderun after takeoff.
Central Taurus Mountains
Dramatic aerial perspectives of the rugged, snow-capped peaks of the Toroslar range.
Konya Basin
Geometric patterns of the vast agricultural heartland of Turkey across the Anatolian plateau.
Marmara Sea
A beautiful transition from land to sea as the aircraft descends towards the Istanbul peninsula.
Princes' Islands
A clear view of the archipelago (Büyükada, Heybeliada, etc.) just before touching down at SAW.
Book a window seat on the left (usually 'A') for sunset flights to catch the golden hour over the Marmara Sea. During the final 15 minutes of the flight, keep your camera ready for the Princes' Islands. In winter, the snow-covered Taurus Mountains provide incredible contrast against the blue sky.
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Amanos Mountains
The forested ridges of the Nur Mountains visible shortly after departure from Hatay.
Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake)
The massive, bright white expanse of Turkey's second-largest lake, particularly striking in summer.
Mount Erciyes
On clear days, the distant snow-capped peak of this ancient volcano can be seen to the northeast.
Osman Gazi Bridge
One of the world's longest suspension bridges spanning the Gulf of Izmit during the descent.
Gebze Industrial Zone
A dense view of Turkey's industrial heartland and the sprawling urban landscape of eastern Istanbul.
The right side (usually 'F') is the best choice for seeing the Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü). If flying at midday, the sun will be on the left side, making the right side better for glare-free photography. Watch for the Osman Gazi Bridge as a landmark for being roughly 10 minutes away from landing.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 788 km (490 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min
Departure: HTY (36.36277771, 36.282222747800006)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: Domestic
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