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IST destination photo
AQJ destination photo

ISTAQJ

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular aerial tour of the Mediterranean coast, the island of Cyprus, and the breathtaking geological transition into the Jordan Rift Valley and the Dead Sea.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏝️

Princes' Islands

A beautiful archipelago in the Sea of Marmara visible during the initial climb out of Istanbul.

🌊

Mediterranean Coast

Stunning views of the Turkish Riviera around Antalya and the turquoise waters of the Levant.

🇨🇾

Cyprus

On clear days, the northern coast and the Pentadaktylos mountain range are visible to the west.

💧

The Dead Sea

A premier highlight featuring the turquoise waters and white salt deposits of the world's lowest lake.

🏙️

Levant Coastline

The dense urban skyline of Tel Aviv and the Mediterranean beaches are often visible from high altitude.

🌅

Gulf of Aqaba

The deep blue waters of the Red Sea meeting the desert mountains during the final approach.

The right side is the definitive choice for scenic value. The transition from the Mediterranean to the Dead Sea is one of the most geographically interesting views in the world. For the best photography, aim for a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the Rift Valley walls. Keep your camera ready about 40 minutes before landing.

Left Side Highlights
6.7
🏙️

Istanbul Outskirts

Views of the southern Istanbul suburbs and the bustling shipping lanes of the Sea of Marmara.

🏔️

Central Taurus Peaks

The rugged, high-altitude limestone mountains of the Anatolian plateau in southern Turkey.

🏜️

Eastern Jordan Desert

The vast, arid landscapes and volcanic basalt fields typical of the eastern Jordanian plateau.

⛰️

Wadi Rum Distant View

The reddish hues of the iconic desert mountains visible as the flight descends toward Aqaba.

The left side is preferable during late afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. It provides a great perspective of the vastness of the Arabian desert and the high plateau of Jordan. Watch for the city of Amman about 45 minutes before landing.

Top Activities in Aqaba
Route Information

Distance: 1,415 km (879 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 53 min

Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Arrival: AQJ (29.61160087585449, 35.01810073852539)

Route Type: International

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