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IST → BEY
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport (Beirut)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a more scenic coastal experience, featuring the Turkish Riviera, the island of Cyprus, and the iconic Beirut skyline during the final approach.
Turkish Turquoise Coast
Spectacular views of the indented coastline near Antalya and Alanya, where the mountains meet the azure Mediterranean waters.
Island of Cyprus
A clear view of the entire island, often passing directly over the Karpas Peninsula or the northern coastline.
Mediterranean Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue sea, providing a sense of the vastness separating the continents.
Beirut City & Corniche
As the plane banks for the final approach to BEY, you get a full view of the Beirut waterfront and the Pigeon Rocks (Raouche).
BEY Airport Approach
The low-altitude flight over the Mediterranean just before touchdown offers a unique perspective of the city's density against the sea.
The right side is highly recommended for the coastal approach into Beirut. For sunset flights, this side offers breathtaking views of the sun dipping into the Mediterranean. Try to secure a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine glare during photography.
Istanbul & Marmara Sea
Panoramic views of the southern districts of Istanbul and the busy shipping lanes of the Sea of Marmara shortly after takeoff.
Taurus Mountains
Dramatic, rugged peaks of the central Taurus range as the flight traverses southern Turkey.
Lake Tuz
The massive white salt lake in central Anatolia is often visible as a bright patch on the horizon depending on the flight corridor.
Tripoli, Lebanon
The northern Lebanese coastal city and its historical port area come into view as you cross the Mediterranean.
Mount Lebanon Range
Stunning views of the snow-capped mountains (in winter) that run parallel to the coast, providing a majestic backdrop to the descent.
Sit on the left for better views of the inland Turkish landscape and the impressive Mount Lebanon range. Morning flights are ideal for this side as the sun illuminates the mountains from the east, highlighting their texture and depth.
Distance: 1,019 km (633 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: BEY (33.820899963378906, 35.488399505615234)
Route Type: International
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