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IST destination photo
HAJ destination photo

ISTHAJ

Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Hannover Airport (Hannover)?

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior sequence of views starting with the Black Sea coastline, followed by the dramatic curve of the Carpathian Mountains and the historic cityscape of Prague.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🏖️

Black Sea Coastline

Dramatic aerial views of the Turkish and Bulgarian shores immediately after departing Istanbul.

🏔️

Carpathian Mountains

The 'Transylvanian Alps' offer jagged peaks and deep valleys as the flight crosses Romania.

🏰

Prague Cityscape

The distinctive spires and Vltava River loops of the Czech capital are frequently visible.

⛰️

Harz Mountains

The northernmost mountain range in Germany, featuring the Brocken peak, visible just before landing.

The right side is ideal for capturing the Black Sea's turquoise waters. To see the Carpathians clearly, choose a flight that departs IST in the late morning or early afternoon for optimal lighting. As you approach Hannover, watch for the geometric patterns of the North German Plain.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

Marmara Sea Vistas

Glancing south shortly after takeoff provides a wide view of the sea and the Istanbul peninsula.

⛰️

Balkan Mountains

The rugged peaks of the Stara Planina range stretching across central Bulgaria.

🏙️

Belgrade Confluence

The meeting point of the Sava and Danube rivers at the heart of the Serbian capital.

🌲

Thuringian Forest

Deep green forested ridges of central Germany appearing during the initial descent phase.

Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and avoid glare. Keep an eye out for the Danube River, which will weave in and out of view across Serbia and Hungary. During the winter, the snow-capped Balkan peaks are particularly striking.

Top Activities in Hannover
Route Information

Distance: 1,900 km (1,181 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 32 min

Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Arrival: HAJ (52.461101532, 9.68507957458)

Route Type: International

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