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IST → MQM
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Mardin Airport (Mardin)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior visual journey, featuring the contrast between the Black Sea coastline at takeoff and the dramatic approach over the Euphrates River and the historic stone architecture of Old Mardin.
Search flights from IST to MQM
Black Sea Coast
Immediate views of the northern Istanbul coastline and the lush green forests surrounding the airport upon departure.
Pontic Mountains
Distant views of the rugged mountain ranges that separate the central plateau from the northern coast.
Euphrates River
Stunning aerial perspectives of the winding Euphrates as it carves through the southeastern Anatolian landscape.
Atatürk Dam Reservoir
The massive turquoise waters of one of the world's largest earth-core fill dams, a striking contrast to the arid surroundings.
Historic Old Mardin
The golden-hued stone houses and ancient minarets of the old city perched on the hillside during the final descent.
Book a seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Atatürk Dam. For the most magical experience, take an early morning flight; the low sun casts long, dramatic shadows over the Mesopotamian hills, highlighting the ancient urban texture of Mardin.
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Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake)
The brilliant white salt crust of Turkey's second-largest lake reflecting the sky like a giant mirror.
Mount Erciyes
The massive snow-capped peak of this dormant volcano dominates the horizon near the city of Kayseri.
Mesopotamian Plains
The vast, flat agricultural landscape stretching endlessly toward the southern horizon and the Syrian border.
Anatolian Steppe
Unique geological formations and the earthy red and ochre tones of the Central Anatolian plateau.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon or sunset flights, as you'll witness the sun dipping below the Mesopotamian horizon. This side is also better for spotting the distinctive conical peak of Mount Erciyes if the flight path tracks slightly south of Ankara.
Book Hotels in MardinDistance: 1,117 km (694 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: MQM (37.2233009338, 40.6316986084)
Route Type: Domestic
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