Loading map...
IST → DOK
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Donetsk International Airport (Donetsk)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides an iconic view of the Bosphorus Strait upon departure and a spectacular panorama of the Crimean Peninsula's mountainous southern coast during the cruise.
Bosphorus Strait
The world-famous waterway separating Europe and Asia, visible immediately after departure from IST.
Crimean Mountains
The dramatic limestone peaks and rugged cliffs along the southern edge of the Crimean Peninsula.
Yalta Coastline
The picturesque resort towns and beaches nestled between the Black Sea and the mountain ranges.
Kerch Strait
The narrow passage connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov, often visible from high altitudes.
Sea of Azov
The shallowest sea in the world, characterized by its lighter greenish-blue hues compared to the Black Sea.
Book a window seat on the right side behind the wing for the most unobstructed views. The Bosphorus is best seen in the first 10 minutes, while the Crimean coast appears roughly midway through the flight. Morning flights offer the best lighting for photography as the sun illuminates the coastline from the south.
Istanbul European Districts
Views of the modern urban expansion and skyscrapers of Istanbul's European side shortly after takeoff.
Western Black Sea
A vast expanse of deep blue water stretching toward the Bulgarian and Romanian coasts.
Southern Ukrainian Steppe
The flat, fertile agricultural lands of southern Ukraine as the aircraft begins its descent.
The left side is best for afternoon flights to avoid the intense sun. Keep an eye out for the Dnieper River delta if the flight path veers slightly west, offering a glimpse of the massive river meeting the sea.
Distance: 1,036 km (644 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: DOK (48.07360076904297, 37.73970031738281)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.