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IST → PRG
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Václav Havel Airport Prague (Prague)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally preferred for this route as it offers better perspectives of major cities like Vienna and potentially Belgrade, while providing the iconic view of the Prague city center and the Vltava River during the final descent into Václav Havel Airport.
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Vitosha Mountain
Visible as you fly over Bulgaria, this massive dome-shaped mountain sits right next to the city of Sofia.
Belgrade Cityscape
Depending on the specific airway, the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers in the Serbian capital may appear.
Lake Balaton
Central Europe's largest lake, known for its distinct turquoise-green water, is visible while traversing Hungary.
Vienna Skyline
A clear view of the Austrian capital's historic center and the Donau City skyscrapers as you cross into Czech airspace.
Prague Old Town
On a standard approach to Runway 24, the left side offers a stunning panorama of the Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.
For the best experience, choose a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Morning flights provide excellent lighting for the Balkan terrain, while late afternoon flights offer a golden glow over the Bohemian landscape. Keep an eye out for the Austrian Alps visible far to the south on very clear days.
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Black Sea Coast
Shortly after takeoff from IST, you will see the rugged coastline where the Thrace region meets the Black Sea.
Southern Carpathians
The dramatic, jagged peaks of the Transylvanian Alps in Romania are often visible to the north of the flight path.
Budapest & Parliament
As the flight crosses the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament Building and the bridges of Budapest are major landmarks.
The Danube Bend
Watch for the scenic 'U-turn' the Danube River makes near Visegrád, north of Budapest.
High Tatra Mountains
In the distance to the north, the snow-capped peaks along the Slovak-Polish border can be spotted on clear days.
The right side is superior for spotting the Carpathian range and the intricate details of the Danube River. If you are flying during the winter, the snow-covered peaks of the Tatras in the distance are a highlight. Be aware that the sun will be on this side for most of the morning, so bring sunglasses or lower the shade if it gets too bright.
Book Hotels in PragueDistance: 1,489 km (925 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 59 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: PRG (50.1008, 14.26)
Route Type: International
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