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KIX → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Kansai International Airport (Osaka) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer incredible views of Central Asia, the right side is marginally better for its perspective of the Caucasus Mountains and the iconic entry into Istanbul via the Bosphorus Strait.
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Seto Inland Sea
Scenic views of the islands and bridges connecting Japan's main islands shortly after leaving Osaka.
Lake Balkhash
A massive, unique crescent-shaped lake in Kazakhstan that stands out against the arid steppe.
Caucasus Mountains
A breathtaking traversal of the range separating Europe and Asia, featuring the towering Mount Elbrus.
Bosphorus Strait
The legendary waterway dividing the two continents, with clear views of the bridges and maritime traffic.
The right side is the prime choice for seeing the Caucasus Mountains roughly 2 hours before landing. As the plane enters Turkish airspace from the Black Sea, you will have a front-row seat to the Bosphorus bridges. This side also avoids the harshest afternoon sun during the long westward journey, providing better conditions for photography.
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Osaka Bay
Aerial views of the Kansai region and the engineering marvel of the airport island during the initial climb.
Tien Shan Mountains
The 'Celestial Mountains' of Central Asia offer spectacular views of jagged, snow-capped peaks and glaciers.
Taklamakan Desert
Observe the vast, shifting sand dunes of one of the world's largest sandy deserts in northwest China.
Istanbul Historic Peninsula
On the final approach, look for the domes and minarets of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque near the Golden Horn.
Choose the left side for morning departures to minimize sun glare over the desert landscapes. During the descent, this side is often best for spotting the dense urban sprawl and historic heart of Istanbul if the flight path follows a southern approach. Ensure your window is clear for the Tien Shan range, which appears approximately 6-7 hours into the flight.
Get eSIMs for Japan
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 8,744 km (5,433 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 17 min
Departure: KIX (34.42729949951172, 135.24400329589844)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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