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IST → EZS
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Elazığ Airport (Elazig)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of Turkey's iconic landmarks, including a potential glimpse of the Bosphorus, the majestic Mount Erciyes volcano, and the breathtaking turquoise waters of Lake Hazar during the final approach.
Bosphorus & Istanbul
On southeast departures, witness the bridge-spanned strait that separates Europe from Asia.
Mount Erciyes
A massive, snow-covered dormant stratovolcano towering over the Kayseri plateau at 3,917 meters.
Anti-Taurus Mountains
Dramatic, high-altitude limestone ridges and deep valleys of the Aladağlar range.
Lake Hazar
A stunning tectonic rift lake known for its crystal-clear water, visible just before descending into Elazığ.
Choose the right side for the most dramatic geological landmarks. Keep your camera ready about 40 minutes into the flight for Mount Erciyes. For the best photography of Lake Hazar, an afternoon flight provides the most vibrant water colors.
Black Sea Coastline
Initial climb-out offers views of the rugged northern coastline and the deep blue waters of the Black Sea.
Pontic Mountains
Dense green forest canopies and jagged peaks of the North Anatolian range stretching toward the horizon.
Kızılırmak River
The 'Red River' snakes through the Central Anatolian landscape with its distinct reddish-brown silty water.
Keban Dam Reservoir
One of Turkey's largest man-made lakes, featuring deep blue inlets carved into the arid mountain landscape.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and get clear views of the Pontic Alps. This side is particularly scenic in winter when the northern mountains are heavily snow-capped.
Distance: 946 km (588 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: EZS (38.6068992615, 39.2914009094)
Route Type: Domestic
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