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IGD → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Iğdır Airport (Igdir) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a spectacular, close-up view of Mount Ararat immediately after takeoff, which is the highlight of the journey, followed by a panoramic sweep across the Anatolian plateau and the Sea of Marmara.
Mount Ararat (Ağrı Dağı)
The highest peak in Turkey and a legendary landmark, visible south of the plane shortly after departure from Iğdır.
Munzur Mountains
A rugged and dramatic limestone mountain range in Eastern Anatolia known for its sharp peaks.
Central Anatolian Plateau
The vast, golden-hued heartland of Turkey, featuring rolling hills and unique steppe geography.
Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake)
The second largest lake in Turkey, appearing as a bright white expanse of salt flats in the distance.
Sea of Marmara
Deep blue waters visible as the aircraft begins its final descent toward the European side of Istanbul.
Book a window seat on the left for the most iconic view of Mount Ararat right after takeoff. Morning flights are best as the sun illuminates the southern slopes of the mountains. Keep your camera ready within the first 10 minutes of flight for the best peak shots.
Kaçkar Mountains
The majestic, often snow-capped peaks of the Pontic Alps visible to the north during the cruise phase.
Kızılırmak River
Turkey's longest internal river, winding through the landscape like a giant silver thread.
Bolu Mountains
Dense, lush green forests and misty peaks that mark the transition from central to western Turkey.
Black Sea Coastline
The rugged northern coastline of Turkey, where green forests meet the deep blue sea near Istanbul.
Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge
The third Bosphorus bridge, often visible during the approach into Istanbul Airport from the northeast.
The right side is excellent for seeing the transition from the arid east to the lush Black Sea region. During the approach into IST, this side often offers the best views of the Black Sea and the massive northern forests of Istanbul. Late afternoon flights provide beautiful lighting over the Pontic range.
Distance: 1,283 km (797 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 43 min
Departure: IGD (39.9766273499, 43.8766479492)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: Domestic
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