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IST destination photo
AYT destination photo

ISTAYT

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers an unparalleled view of the Bosphorus, the historic heart of Istanbul, and the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Eğirdir before descending over the Taurus Mountains.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌉

Bosphorus Strait

A breathtaking view of the bridges and the narrow waterway separating the European and Asian continents shortly after takeoff.

🕌

Historic Peninsula

Glimpses of the Golden Horn, Hagia Sophia, and Blue Mosque as the plane tracks south from Istanbul Airport.

💧

Lake Iznik

A large, scenic freshwater lake located in the Bursa province, often passed directly on the left flight path.

🏔️

Uludağ Mountain

The snow-capped peaks of Western Anatolia's highest mountain and the surrounding national park.

💙

Lake Eğirdir

A massive, vibrant turquoise lake in the Turkish Lake District, providing one of the most scenic points of the journey.

⛰️

Taurus Mountains

Rugged limestone peaks and deep valleys that define the landscape just before the descent into the Mediterranean basin.

Book a window seat on the left (Seat A) for the best views of the Istanbul skyline during departure. For the best lighting on the landscape and Lake Eğirdir, a mid-morning flight is ideal as the sun will be behind you or directly overhead, highlighting the water's blue hues. Keep your camera ready in the last 15 minutes for the dramatic mountain-to-sea transition.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Sea of Marmara

Expansive views of the inland sea and the many ships waiting to enter the Bosphorus.

🏗️

Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge

An aerial perspective of the northernmost bridge connecting the two continents near the Black Sea entrance.

🚜

Anatolian Heartlands

Geometric patterns of agricultural fields and rural Turkish villages across the plateau.

💧

Lake Burdur

A saline lake known for its distinct grayish-blue color, visible during the initial stages of the descent.

🏖️

Antalya Cityscape

As the plane turns for its final approach, you will see the urban sprawl of Antalya meeting the Mediterranean cliffs.

Seat F is best for sunset flights, as you will catch the golden hour over the Sea of Marmara and the western horizon. During the final approach into AYT, the right side often gets a better view of the city's western coastline and the Konyaaltı beach area if the wind dictates a landing from the north.

Top Activities in Antalya
Route Information

Distance: 518 km (322 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 52 min

Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Arrival: AYT (36.898701, 30.800501)

Route Type: Domestic

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