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IST → MZR
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Mazar I Sharif Airport (Mazar-i-sharif)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Greater Caucasus Mountains and the vast northern expanse of the Caspian Sea, followed by striking desert patterns over Central Asia.
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Black Sea Coastline
Breathtaking views of the lush, green Pontic coast of Turkey as you depart from Istanbul and head east.
Greater Caucasus Peaks
The snow-capped giants of Georgia and Russia, including the potential to spot Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe.
The Caspian Sea
A long segment crossing the world's largest inland body of water, offering deep blue contrasts against the horizon.
Karakum Desert
Intricate wind-swept sand patterns and desolate salt flats across the vast interior of Turkmenistan.
Ashgabat Surroundings
Aerial glimpses of the white-marble architecture of Turkmenistan's capital if the flight path tracks slightly north.
To capture the Caucasus Mountains in their best light, choose a morning flight when the sun illuminates the southern faces of the peaks. Keep your camera ready about 90-120 minutes after takeoff from IST. Ensure your window is clean, as the high-altitude glare over the Caspian Sea can be intense.
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Eastern Anatolian Plateau
The rugged, high-altitude terrain of eastern Turkey, characterized by volcanic cones and deep valleys.
Mount Ararat
On a clear day and a slightly southern track, the iconic snow-covered peak of Mount Ararat is visible near the border junction.
Baku and Absheron Peninsula
The industrial and urban landscape of Azerbaijan's capital, including visible offshore oil rigs in the Caspian.
Kopet Dag Mountains
The jagged mountain range forming the natural border between Turkmenistan and Iran.
Amu Darya River
The vital turquoise vein of water marking the final approach into Northern Afghanistan near the border.
The right side is superior for spotting human landmarks like Baku and the geographical border of the Amu Darya. During descent into Mazar-i-Sharif, the right side provides a better view of the Hindu Kush foothills. Use a polarizing filter if photographing over the desert to cut through the atmospheric haze.
Book Hotels in Mazar-i-sharifDistance: 3,335 km (2,072 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 55 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: MZR (36.70690155029297, 67.20970153808594)
Route Type: International
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