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IST destination photo
AAL destination photo

ISTAAL

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic Balkan and Carpathian mountain ranges and provides better lighting conditions during afternoon flights as the sun moves toward the west.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Black Sea Coastline

Aerial views of the rugged Turkish and Bulgarian coast shortly after departing Istanbul.

⛰️

Balkan Mountains

The central mountain range of Bulgaria featuring jagged peaks and deep forested valleys.

💧

The Danube River

The winding curves of Europe's second-longest river marking the border between Bulgaria and Romania.

🏰

Southern Carpathians

Dramatic views of the 'Transylvanian Alps' with snow-capped peaks visible for much of the year.

🌾

German & Polish Lowlands

A patchwork of agricultural fields and small European villages stretching toward the horizon.

For afternoon departures, the left side benefits from the golden hour glow over the European landscape. Seat yourself forward of the wing to capture unobstructed photos of the Carpathian Mountains. Look out approximately 45 minutes into the flight for the best river views.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏖️

Varna and the Riviera

Views of the famous Bulgarian seaside resorts and the deep blue expanse of the Black Sea.

🌲

Transylvanian Plateau

The high-altitude hilly region of central Romania characterized by dense forests and ancient towns.

🏙️

Warsaw Environs

Depending on the specific airway, the distant urban sprawl of the Polish capital may be visible.

🌊

Baltic Sea Horizon

The shimmering transition from land to sea as the flight crosses northern Germany and Poland.

🌉

Limfjord Approach

A stunning final view of the narrow waterway that separates the North Jutlandic Island from the rest of Jutland.

Choose the right side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. This side is particularly rewarding during the final 15 minutes of the flight, offering the best views of the Danish coastline and the intricate waterways surrounding Aalborg Airport.

Top Activities in Aalborg
Route Information

Distance: 2,216 km (1,377 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 57 min

Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Arrival: AAL (57.0927589138, 9.84924316406)

Route Type: International

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