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KHI destination photo
IST destination photo

KHIIST

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the majestic Mount Ararat and the iconic Bosphorus Strait during the descent into Istanbul, providing a true cross-continental experience.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
⛰️

Chagai Hills

The stark, volcanic landscape of Western Pakistan near the border with Afghanistan and Iran.

🏜️

Dasht-e Kavir

The Great Salt Desert of Iran, displaying intricate salt crust patterns and vast uninhabited expanses.

🏔️

Mount Ararat

The highest peak in Turkey, a snow-capped dormant volcano that is legendary for its association with Noah's Ark.

🌲

Pontic Mountains

The lush, green mountain ranges of northern Turkey that separate the Anatolian plateau from the Black Sea.

🌉

The Bosphorus

The world-famous waterway dividing Europe and Asia, featuring the bridges and the historic skyline of Istanbul.

🏢

Levent & Maslak

Istanbul's modern skyscraper district and financial center visible during the final minutes of flight.

The right side is the 'star' side for the approach into IST. Choose a seat ahead of the wing for an unobstructed view of Mount Ararat, which appears roughly midway through the flight. On the final approach from the east, you will have a panoramic view of the Bosphorus and the Black Sea coastline.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Makran Coastline

Dramatic aerial views of the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea shortly after takeoff from Karachi.

🏔️

Zagros Mountains

The southern stretch of Iran's primary mountain range, featuring unique geological folds and jagged limestone peaks.

💧

Lake Van

A massive, stunning saline soda lake in Eastern Turkey, easily identified by its deep blue and turquoise hues.

🏜️

Anatolian Plateau

The high altitude heartland of Turkey, showcasing seasonal changes from snow-dusted plains to golden summer fields.

⛴️

Sea of Marmara

Views of the bustling shipping lanes and the Princes' Islands as the aircraft begins its final approach sequence.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun glare. This side is particularly rewarding during the winter months for viewing snow-covered Iranian highlands. Watch for the coastline of the Gulf of Oman early in the flight for stunning desert-meets-ocean photography.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 3,971 km (2,467 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 40 min

Departure: KHI (24.9065, 67.160797)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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