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IST → KSY
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Kars Airport (Kars)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the diverse Anatolian topography, transitioning from central plains to the dramatic, jagged peaks of the Kaçkar Mountains and the high-altitude plateaus of the East.
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Anatolian Plateau
The vast, rolling terrain of central Turkey, showcasing agricultural patterns and varying earth tones.
Kızılırmak River
The 'Red River' can be seen snaking its way through the landscape, identifiable by its distinct reddish-brown silt.
Kaçkar Mountain Range
Spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys as you traverse eastern Turkey.
Highland Steppes
The unique, treeless, high-altitude landscape characteristic of the Kars and Erzurum provinces.
Çıldır Lake Region
In winter months, the frozen expanse of high-altitude lakes near the destination creates a surreal white landscape.
The right side is best for geography lovers. To avoid the harsh sun glare when flying east, afternoon flights are recommended for this side. During winter, ensure you have your camera ready for the Kaçkar range, as the snow coverage makes the mountain ridges exceptionally photogenic against the blue sky.
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Black Sea Coastline
Aerial views of the deep blue Black Sea meeting the steep, forested northern slopes of the Pontic Alps.
Sinop Peninsula
A clear view of Turkey's northernmost point, featuring a unique natural harbor and narrow neck of land.
Samsun Metropolitan Area
Visual of the largest city in the Black Sea region, nestled between the sea and the fertile Delta of the Yeşilırmak.
Trabzon Shoreline
During the latter half of the flight, observe the busy port and urban sprawl of historical Trebizond.
Sit on the left for morning flights to enjoy soft, indirect light over the water. Keep an eye out for the distinct shape of the Sinop peninsula approximately 40 minutes after departure. On clear days, the distant peaks of the Caucasus Mountains may be visible on the far horizon as you approach Kars.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 1,208 km (751 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: KSY (40.562198638916016, 43.1150016784668)
Route Type: Domestic
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