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IST → AYT
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Antalya International Airport (Antalya)?
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.
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.
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.
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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