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IST → KIV
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Chişinău International Airport (Chisinau)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic transition from the Istanbul coastline to the Black Sea, featuring the Bosphorus entrance and the intricate UNESCO-listed Danube Delta.
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Bosphorus Mouth
The northern entrance of the Bosphorus strait where the Marmara meets the Black Sea.
Black Sea Coastline
Clear views of the rugged coastline and sandy beaches stretching toward the Bulgarian border.
Danube Delta
The spectacular maze of channels and lakes where Europe's second-longest river meets the sea.
Snake Island
Depending on the specific flight path, this small but strategically significant island can be spotted in the distance.
Chisinau Approach
Sweeping views of the green hills and Soviet-era urban planning surrounding the capital city.
The right side is essential for seeing the Danube Delta, one of Europe's most unique geographic features. For the clearest views of the water and delta channels, book a morning flight when the sun illuminates the coast from the east. Ensure your window is clean, as the coastal moisture can sometimes cause minor streaking.
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European Thrace
Views of the rolling hills and rapid urban expansion of Istanbul's western districts.
Strandja Massif
The dense green forests straddling the border between Turkey and Bulgaria.
Southern Moldovan Plains
A patchwork of vineyards and agricultural fields characteristic of the Cahul region.
Choose the left side for better lighting during late afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It provides a better view of the inland topography and the rural landscape of Gagauzia during the descent into Chisinau.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for MoldovaDistance: 629 km (391 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 3 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: KIV (46.92770004272461, 28.93099975585937)
Route Type: International
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