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KWI → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Kuwait International Airport (Kuwait) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this route as it offers the most iconic views of Istanbul's historical peninsula, the Bosphorus, and the Sea of Marmara during the descent into IST.
Search flights from KWI to IST
Ancient Mesopotamia
Aerial views of the fertile crescent and the winding path of the Euphrates River in southern Iraq.
Taurus Mountains
Dramatic snow-capped peaks and rugged limestone ridges of the Bolkar and Aladaglar ranges.
Sea of Marmara
The sparkling blue waters and the Princes' Islands as the aircraft begins its final approach.
Istanbul Historic Peninsula
A stunning perspective of the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace if landing from the south.
Bosphorus Strait
The narrow waterway dividing Europe and Asia, dotted with transit ships and grand bridges.
For morning flights, the sun is on the right, meaning the left side has perfect lighting for photography without glare. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing, as the pilot often banks left over the city, providing a panoramic view of the Old City.
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Zagros Mountains
The distant, imposing mountain range forming the natural border between Iraq and Iran.
Lake Tuz
A massive, blindingly white salt lake in the heart of the Central Anatolian plateau.
Ankara Region
High-altitude views of the rolling hills surrounding Turkey's modern capital city.
Black Sea Coastline
The lush green forests of northern Istanbul meeting the dark waters of the Black Sea during northern approaches.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct western sun. Look out for the unique white expanse of Lake Tuz roughly halfway through the Turkish portion of the flight. This side also offers a better view of the massive new Istanbul Airport infrastructure just before touchdown.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 2,191 km (1,361 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 55 min
Departure: KWI (29.226600646972656, 47.96889877319336)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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