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KZN β IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Kazan International Airport (Kazan) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more dramatic perspective, featuring the vast Volga River system at departure and the potential to spot the snow-capped Caucasus peaks to the south before the Black Sea crossing.
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Volga River Bend
Witness the massive scale of Europe's longest river as the plane climbs out of Kazan.
Greater Caucasus
On clear days, the jagged, snow-dusted peaks of the Caucasus range are visible to the south across the Russian plains.
Sochi Coastline
Depending on the specific airway, the descent toward the Black Sea may offer glimpses of the Russian Riviera.
Bosphorus Strait
The iconic waterway separating Europe and Asia is often visible during the banking turns into IST.
Asian Side Istanbul
View the dense urban sprawl of KadΔ±kΓΆy and the Princes' Islands as the aircraft maneuvers for landing.
Book a window seat on the left for the best lighting during afternoon flights. Keep your camera ready about 45-60 minutes into the flight for the best mountain views. During the descent, watch for the Bosphorus bridges connecting the two continents.
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Russian Heartland
Endless patchwork quilts of agricultural fields across the fertile southern Russian steppes.
Don River
Aerial views of the winding Don River as it flows toward the Sea of Azov.
Black Sea Shipping
Spot cargo ships and tankers navigating the vast blue expanse between Russia and Turkey.
Belgrad Forest
A lush green canopy visible on the European side of Istanbul just before touchdown.
Istanbul Airport Terminal
An excellent view of the massive, modern architectural complex of the world's largest terminal building.
The right side is ideal for passengers who prefer shade during the flight, as the sun will be predominantly on the left. It offers a clear view of the Black Sea's northern coastline and the impressive scale of the new Istanbul Airport infrastructure on final approach.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 2,182 km (1,356 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 55 min
Departure: KZN (55.606201171875, 49.278701782227)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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