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IST → NBO
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the Bosphorus upon departure, the dramatic Sinai Peninsula, the rugged Ethiopian Highlands, and a prime view of Mount Kenya during the descent into Nairobi.
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Bosphorus Strait
Aerial view of the iconic waterway dividing Europe and Asia and the bridges connecting them.
Sinai Peninsula
Craggy desert mountains and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Aqaba and Suez.
Ethiopian Highlands
The 'Roof of Africa' featuring massive plateaus and deep river gorges carved into the landscape.
Mount Kenya
Stunning views of Africa's second-highest peak, often capped with snow despite being on the equator.
Nairobi National Park
Possible sightings of the wildlife-filled savannah just before touchdown at Jomo Kenyatta.
Choose the left side for night flights arriving at dawn to catch a spectacular sunrise over the Indian Ocean horizon and the Ethiopian peaks. Ensure you are awake at least 45 minutes before landing to spot Mount Kenya, which is the highlight of this route.
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Mediterranean Coastline
Beautiful transition from the Anatolian coast into the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea.
Nile River Valley
The stark green ribbon of life cutting through the vast golden sands of the Sahara and Nubian deserts.
Lake Turkana
Known as the Jade Sea, this massive desert lake stands out with its incredible turquoise hue.
Great Rift Valley
The massive geological trench featuring dramatic escarpments and dormant volcanic craters.
Nairobi Skyline
Depending on the wind direction and runway approach, the city's high-rises are often visible to the right.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Great Rift Valley. It provides the best views of the Nile River's path through Sudan. Keep your camera ready for the contrast between the desert and the Rift Valley lakes like Nakuru and Naivasha during the descent.
Book Hotels in NairobiDistance: 4,808 km (2,988 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 39 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: NBO (-1.31923997402, 36.9277992249)
Route Type: International
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