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IST → LGW
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to London Gatwick Airport (London)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior panorama of the Istanbul skyline during departure, distant southern views of the Alps, and a scenic approach over the English Channel and the rolling hills of Kent.
Search flights from IST to LGW
Istanbul Peninsula
Aerial views of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, and the historic center if taking off towards the south.
Balkan Mountains
The rugged peaks of the Rila and Pirin ranges in Bulgaria are visible as you head northwest.
Distant Alps
On clear days, the northern fringes of the snow-capped Austrian and Swiss Alps appear on the southern horizon.
English Channel
The crossing from the European mainland towards the UK, often featuring busy shipping lanes.
Kentish Weald
The lush green landscapes known as the 'Garden of England' during the descent into Gatwick.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct glare while capturing the Turkish coastline. This side is also preferred for seeing the English coastline first upon arrival in UK airspace. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the classic British countryside views.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for United KingdomBlack Sea Coast
Immediate views of the turquoise waters and northern Turkish coastline right after takeoff from IST.
Budapest
The flight path often passes near the Hungarian capital, offering views of the Danube and city layout.
The Danube River
Europe's second-longest river winds through the landscape below for several hundred miles.
Rhine Valley
The scenic river bends and industrial hubs of western Germany come into view mid-flight.
Rotterdam & North Sea
Views of one of the world's largest ports and massive offshore wind farms near the Dutch coast.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as it remains in the shade, providing better conditions for photography of the Danube and Rhine rivers. Watch for the intricate canal systems and reclaimed land (polders) when flying over the Netherlands and Belgium.
Book Hotels in LondonDistance: 2,461 km (1,529 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 17 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)
Route Type: International
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