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ISU → IKA
Which side of the plane to sit from Sulaymaniyah International Airport (Sulaymaniyah) to Imam Khomeini International Airport (Tehran)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning panorama of the northern Zagros peaks and provides a clear view of the Alborz mountain range and the southern fringes of the Tehran metropolis during the final descent into IKA.
Northern Zagros Peaks
Witness the rugged, snow-dusted ridges of the northern Zagros mountains shortly after crossing the Iraq-Iran border.
Zarivar Lake Vicinity
Depending on the exact flight corridor, you may spot the lush green valleys near Marivan and the surrounding protected areas.
Qazvin Plains
As the flight approaches the Tehran province, the landscape flattens into the industrial and agricultural plains of Qazvin.
Alborz Mountain Range
On a clear day, look far to the north to see the towering Alborz mountains which separate the plateau from the Caspian Sea.
Tehran Skyline
During the northern approach pattern to IKA, the sprawl of Tehran and its landmark towers are often visible in the distance to the left.
For the most dramatic views of the Zagros, opt for a morning flight when the sun illuminates the eastern slopes. During winter months (December–March), the snow cover on the mountains makes for incredible photography. Request a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat blur and wing obstruction when viewing the Alborz range.
Mount Alvand
Look south to see the massive granite peaks of the Alvand range near the ancient city of Hamadan.
Central Iranian Plateau
The terrain transitions into the arid, beautiful geometric patterns of the central plateau's desert edges.
Saveh Orchards
On the descent, you will pass over the historic city of Saveh, famous for its pomegranate and central desert agriculture.
Parand New City
Modern urban planning is visible as you fly over the rapidly expanding new city of Parand just before landing.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights as the sun is behind you, reducing glare on the window. Keep an eye out for the unique 'Qanat' irrigation systems—ancient underground channels—visible as lines of small holes in the desert earth near Hamadan and Saveh.
Distance: 529 km (329 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 53 min
Departure: ISU (35.5617485046, 45.3167381287)
Arrival: IKA (35.416099548339844, 51.152198791503906)
Route Type: International
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