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IST β TBZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Tabriz International Airport (Tabriz)?
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.
Mount Erciyes
In the distance, the massive dormant volcano of Central Anatolia stands prominently above the surrounding plains.
Lake Van
A stunning sight of Turkey's largest lake, known for its vivid turquoise soda waters and Akdamar Island.
Mount Ararat
The highlight of the trip: the dormant volcanic cone and the highest peak in Turkey, traditionally associated with Noah's Ark.
Little Ararat
A secondary, perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone situated right next to the Great Ararat peak.
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.
Black Sea Coastline
Dramatic views of the northern Turkish coast where the green forests meet the deep blue waters of the Black Sea.
Pontic Mountains
The rugged KaΓ§kar range features jagged peaks and high-altitude glacial lakes, often covered in mist.
Erzurum Highlands
Aerial perspective of one of Turkey's highest cities, surrounded by harsh yet beautiful alpine terrain.
Little Caucasus Foothills
The northern horizon showcases the rising terrain leading toward the borders of Georgia and Armenia.
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.
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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