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IST destination photo
TBZ destination photo

IST β†’ TBZ

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers an unparalleled view of the most iconic landmarks on this route, including the massive Lake Van and the legendary snow-capped peak of Mount Ararat as you cross the border into Iran.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
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Mount Erciyes

In the distance, the massive dormant volcano of Central Anatolia stands prominently above the surrounding plains.

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Lake Van

A stunning sight of Turkey's largest lake, known for its vivid turquoise soda waters and Akdamar Island.

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Mount Ararat

The highlight of the trip: the dormant volcanic cone and the highest peak in Turkey, traditionally associated with Noah's Ark.

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Little Ararat

A secondary, perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone situated right next to the Great Ararat peak.

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Azerbaijan Province Plateau

The rugged, reddish-brown mountainous terrain of Northwest Iran as the flight descends toward Tabriz.

The right side is essential for seeing Mount Ararat, which appears roughly 20 to 30 minutes before landing in Tabriz. For the best photography, choose a seat behind the wing to capture the scale of Lake Van. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for the Iranian landscape descent.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
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Black Sea Coastline

Dramatic views of the northern Turkish coast where the green forests meet the deep blue waters of the Black Sea.

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Pontic Mountains

The rugged KaΓ§kar range features jagged peaks and high-altitude glacial lakes, often covered in mist.

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Erzurum Highlands

Aerial perspective of one of Turkey's highest cities, surrounded by harsh yet beautiful alpine terrain.

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Little Caucasus Foothills

The northern horizon showcases the rising terrain leading toward the borders of Georgia and Armenia.

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Aras River Valley

The winding Aras River carves deep canyons through the arid landscape, marking the natural border between nations.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and enjoy the soft light hitting the Pontic Alps. This side provides a better view of the northern green belts of Turkey before the landscape transitions into the high steppe of the east.

Top Activities in Tabriz
Route Information

Distance: 1,533 km (953 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 3 min

Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Arrival: TBZ (38.1338996887207, 46.23500061035156)

Route Type: International

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