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IST → HKG
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Hong Kong International Airport (Hong Kong)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the high Central Asian mountain ranges and the spectacular limestone karst topography of Southern China, concluding with the iconic approach over Hong Kong's islands.
Anatolian Plateau
The rugged, volcanic interior of Turkey with its unique geological folds and textures.
Pamir Mountains
Breath-taking views of the 'Roof of the World' with some of the highest peaks outside the Himalayas.
Taklamakan Desert
Stunning vistas of shifting sand dunes in one of the world's largest sandy deserts.
Southern China Karst
The world-famous limestone peaks and 'sugarloaf' mountains of the Guilin and Yunnan regions.
Lantau Island
Clear views of the Big Buddha statue and the lush greenery of Hong Kong's outlying islands during descent.
The right side is best for seeing the dramatic mountain ranges of Central Asia during the middle of the flight. On approach to HKG, the right side frequently offers a better perspective of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the surrounding islands. Note that this side will experience direct sunlight for much of the journey.
Black Sea Coast
Dramatic views of the northern Turkish coastline and the deep blue expanse shortly after takeoff.
Greater Caucasus
The snow-capped peaks of Georgia and Russia visible as the flight path heads toward the Caspian.
Caspian Sea
A vast crossing over the world's largest inland body of water, often revealing offshore infrastructure.
Central Asian Steppes
Mesmerizing, arid landscapes and vast plains across Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.
Pearl River Delta
Dense urban clusters and the massive infrastructure connecting the Guangdong region.
Sit on the left for early views of the Black Sea. Since this is an eastbound flight, the sun will rise on the left side (north-facing windows avoid direct glare), providing soft morning light for photography over the Chinese mainland. Watch for the lights of Baku if flying overnight.
Distance: 8,006 km (4,975 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 25 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: HKG (22.308901, 113.915001)
Route Type: International
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