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IKA → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Imam Khomeini International Airport (Tehran) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for its iconic view of Mount Ararat, the highest peak in Turkey, and the dramatic transition from the Alborz mountains to the Black Sea coastline during the descent into Sabiha Gökçen.
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Alborz Mountain Range
Immediately after takeoff, witness the towering peaks that separate Tehran from the Caspian Sea.
Mount Ararat
The massive, snow-capped dormant volcano near the border of Turkey, Iran, and Armenia.
Pontic Mountains
The lush, green mountain ranges of northern Turkey that run parallel to the Black Sea.
Black Sea Coastline
The scenic contrast where the dark waters of the Black Sea meet the steep Turkish northern coast.
Istanbul Asian Side
Densely packed urban landscapes and the Princess Islands just before touchdown at SAW.
For the best view of Mount Ararat, look out approximately 50-65 minutes into the flight. If the plane approaches SAW from the north, you will get a spectacular view of the Black Sea. This side is also better for catching the sunset on late afternoon flights heading west.
Book Hotels in IstanbulLake Urmia
The distinctive reddish-orange and white salt crusts of this massive endorheic lake in northwestern Iran.
Lake Van
Turkey's largest lake, appearing as a deep blue expanse surrounded by high volcanic peaks like Mount Süphan.
Taurus Mountains
The rugged, folded limestone ridges of the Eastern Anatolian plateau.
Gulf of Izmit
Industrial shipping lanes and the Osmangazi Bridge visible during the final approach to SAW.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and avoid glare. This side is excellent for seeing the unique geological formations of Lake Urmia about 45 minutes after takeoff. In winter, the snow coverage on the Anatolian plateau is breathtaking from this vantage point.
Get eSIMs for Iran
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 1,999 km (1,242 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 40 min
Departure: IKA (35.416099548339844, 51.152198791503906)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: International
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