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IST → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior mix of diverse geography, including the southern tips of Greenland's glaciers and a spectacular scenic approach into Los Angeles over the Mojave Desert and Las Vegas.
Search flights from IST to LAX
Central Europe
Bird's-eye views of the diverse landscapes and historic urban centers of the European continent.
Southern Greenland
Dramatic views of the coastal glaciers and massive icebergs floating in the North Atlantic.
Hudson Bay
The sprawling, icy expanse of Canada's massive inland sea and its rugged shoreline.
Mojave Desert
The striking red rock formations and arid basins of the American Southwest during descent.
Las Vegas
A clear view of the neon-lit Strip and the surrounding suburban sprawl in the Nevada desert.
San Gabriel Mountains
The final mountain barrier before the aircraft descends into the sprawling Los Angeles Basin.
Sit on the left for the best lighting during the afternoon arrival into LAX. You will likely pass directly over or near Las Vegas; keep your camera ready about 45 minutes before landing. In winter, the frozen Hudson Bay provides a mesmerizing, cracked-ice landscape. For the best views of Greenland, aim for a window seat mid-cabin to avoid the wing's obstruction.
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Norwegian Fjords
Glimpses of the jagged, deep-cut coastlines of Norway as the flight heads northwest.
Greenland Ice Cap
The vast, pristine white wilderness of the world's second-largest ice sheet.
Arctic Archipelago
Remote and desolate frozen islands in the far north of Canada.
Canadian Rockies
Towering snow-capped peaks and deep evergreen forests of western Canada.
Great Salt Lake
The unique colors and stark white salt flats of Utah's most famous natural feature.
Inland Empire
Aerial views of the massive logistics hubs and residential grids of Southern California.
The right side is ideal for spotting the deep interior of Greenland and the high Arctic islands. This side avoids direct sun glare for much of the westbound journey, making it better for photography. Note that the right side might see the Hollywood Sign on the very final approach if the plane performs a specific northern 'downwind' leg before turning onto final.
Book Hotels in Los AngelesDistance: 11,002 km (6,836 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 57 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: International
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