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IST → HRG
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Hurghada International Airport (Hurghada)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Sinai Peninsula's rugged mountain ranges and the transition from the Mediterranean into the iconic Suez Canal and Red Sea region.
Sea of Marmara
Clear views of the Princes' Islands and the southern coastline of the Marmara region shortly after takeoff.
Taurus Mountains
The dramatic, jagged peaks of the southern Turkish mountain range before the flight moves over the sea.
Northern Cyprus
Aerial perspective of the Kyrenia mountain range and the northern coastline of the island of Cyprus.
Suez Canal Entrance
View of Port Said and the northern mouth of the Suez Canal where massive cargo ships gather.
Sinai Peninsula
The stark, beautiful contrast of the Sinai desert and the high granite mountains of the south.
Gulf of Suez
Vibrant turquoise coral reefs and offshore oil rigs visible in the clear waters of the Red Sea.
For the best experience, sit behind the wing to avoid engine heat haze. On morning flights, the sun rises on this side, making the Sinai mountains look spectacular, though you may need sunglasses. Look for the 'ships in the sand' effect when crossing the Suez Canal area.
Istanbul Suburbs
Expansive views of the European side of Istanbul and the rapid urban development toward the south.
Lake Beyşehir
One of Turkey's largest freshwater lakes, surrounded by the Anamas Mountains.
Antalya Coast
The sparkling 'Turquoise Coast' of Turkey as the plane leaves the mainland.
Nile Delta Edge
The sharp line where the lush green vegetation of the Nile Delta meets the harsh Sahara desert.
Eastern Desert
Endless rolling dunes and deep wadis of the Egyptian desert landscape.
El Gouna
The distinctive man-made lagoons and luxury resorts of El Gouna just minutes before landing at HRG.
Choose the right side for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Sahara. It offers a unique view of the transition from the fertile Nile valley to the desert. During the descent into Hurghada, you may get a glimpse of the vast desert wind farms.
Distance: 1,634 km (1,015 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: HRG (27.178300857543945, 33.799400329589844)
Route Type: International
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