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IST → KWI
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Kuwait International Airport (Kuwait)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a spectacular vantage point of Eastern Anatolia's high-altitude lakes and the dramatic, snow-capped Zagros Mountains along the Iraq-Iran border.
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Black Sea Coastline
Lush green vistas of the northern Turkish coast during the initial ascent phase.
Pontic Mountains
The rugged, forest-clad peaks of the Kaçkar range visible to the north.
Lake Van
A massive, turquoise soda lake surrounded by dormant volcanoes like Mount Nemrut.
Zagros Mountains
The serrated, jagged ridges of the Iraq-Iran border region, often snow-capped in winter.
Tigris River
The winding path of the Tigris as it enters the historic Mesopotamian basin.
Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the best lighting on the Anatolian plateau. During winter, look for the striking contrast between the frozen high-altitude lakes and the dark volcanic soil. This side is also best for spotting the distant snow peaks of the Caucasus if the sky is exceptionally clear.
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Istanbul Skyline
Panoramic views of the Bosphorus and historical peninsula shortly after takeoff.
Taurus Mountains
The limestone peaks and deep canyons of the Central and Eastern Taurus ranges.
Euphrates River
The historic 'Cradle of Civilization' waterway snaking through the Syrian-Iraqi desert.
Mesopotamian Plains
Vast desert expanses interspersed with ancient agricultural grids and irrigation canals.
Kuwait City
The Persian Gulf coastline and Kuwait Towers visible during the final descent.
The right side is superior for evening flights to witness the sunset over the desert. Keep your camera ready about 45 minutes before landing for views of the Euphrates. As you approach Kuwait, this side frequently provides the best view of the glittering city lights and the harbor if landing from the north.
Book Hotels in KuwaitDistance: 2,191 km (1,361 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 55 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: KWI (29.226600646972656, 47.96889877319336)
Route Type: International
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