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ISB destination photo
IST destination photo

ISBIST

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is generally preferred for its spectacular views of the Hindu Kush mountains early in the flight and the scenic transition from the Anatolian mountains to the Black Sea coast during the approach to Istanbul.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Hindu Kush Range

Stunning views of high-altitude snow-capped peaks along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border region.

🌋

Mount Damavand

Spot the iconic, symmetrical volcanic cone of Iran's highest peak north of the flight path near Tehran.

🌊

Caspian Sea Coast

Possible distant views of the southern shores of the world's largest inland sea.

🌲

Pontic Mountains

The lush, green mountain ranges that run parallel to Turkey's northern Black Sea coast.

🏖️

Black Sea Entry

Breathtaking views of the rugged coastline as the aircraft turns toward Istanbul Airport.

This is the best side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. The highlight is the initial climb over the Hindu Kush; keep your camera ready within the first hour. On arrival at IST, the right side often provides a better perspective of the Black Sea shoreline.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🧂

Salt Range

Shortly after takeoff from Islamabad, view the ancient geological formations of the Potohar Plateau.

⛰️

Zagros Mountains

Fly over the incredible ridges and salt domes of the Zagros range stretching across Iran.

💧

Lake Van

A massive, striking blue saline lake in eastern Turkey surrounded by volcanic peaks.

🌾

Central Anatolian Plateau

The high-altitude heartland of Turkey featuring rolling steppes and unique agricultural patterns.

🌊

Sea of Marmara

Glance at the shimmering waters separating Europe and Asia during the final descent phase.

Choose this side on morning flights to have the sun behind you. It offers better views of the vast Iranian interior and the dramatic Lake Van. If the flight path approaches Istanbul from the south, you might catch a glimpse of the Bosphorus bridges.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 3,944 km (2,451 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 38 min

Departure: ISB (33.560713, 72.851613)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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