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IST → CAI
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Cairo International Airport (Cairo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is preferred for the iconic opportunity to spot the Great Pyramids of Giza during the descent into Cairo, along with aerial views of the Greek islands.
Dodecanese Islands
Beautiful aerial perspectives of Greek islands like Rhodes and Karpathos dotting the Aegean Sea.
Mediterranean Horizon
Deep sapphire blue waters stretching toward the horizon during the mid-flight cruise.
Pyramids of Giza
The world-famous silhouettes of the Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure pyramids often visible during the western arrival pattern.
Western Desert
The vast golden dunes of the Sahara beginning just at the edge of the Nile's fertile valley.
Giza Plateau
The dramatic intersection where the ancient monuments meet the dense urban sprawl of modern Cairo.
The right side is the 'money side' for Cairo arrivals. For the best chance to see the Pyramids, book a seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view during the descent. Late afternoon flights are ideal, as the low sun creates long shadows that make the pyramids and desert topography pop.
Bosphorus Strait
A stunning view of the waterway separating Europe and Asia shortly after takeoff from IST.
Taurus Mountains
Rugged, snow-capped peaks visible as the flight crosses the southern Turkish coastline.
Antalya Coast
The brilliant turquoise waters and jagged cliffs of the Turkish Riviera near the Mediterranean exit.
Eastern Nile Delta
The lush green agricultural carpet of Egypt sharply contrasting with the surrounding beige desert.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. This side offers superior views of the Anatolian landscape and the sprawling urban development of New Cairo during the final approach. In winter, the Taurus Mountains are particularly scenic with heavy snow cover.
Distance: 1,263 km (785 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 41 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Route Type: International
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