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IST destination photo
HKG destination photo

ISTHKG

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

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.

Top Activities in Hong Kong
Route Information

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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