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MBA destination photo
IST destination photo

MBA β†’ IST

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is favored for its iconic views of the Nile River, the Great Pyramids of Giza during the transition to the Mediterranean, and the dramatic landscapes of the Kenyan Highlands and Rift Valley.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
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Mount Kenya

Shorty after takeoff, look out for the jagged, snow-dusted peaks of Kenya's highest mountain rising above the clouds.

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Lake Turkana

The world's largest permanent desert lake, known as the Jade Sea, provides a stunning turquoise contrast to the surrounding volcanic landscape.

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The Nile River

The flight path often parallels the Nile through Sudan and Egypt, offering views of the narrow green ribbon of life amidst the Sahara.

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Great Pyramids of Giza

As the aircraft approaches the Mediterranean coast near Cairo, the ancient pyramids are often visible on the edge of the desert.

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Western Anatolian Coast

On the final approach into Istanbul, the rugged coastline and turquoise waters of the Aegean and Marmara seas come into view.

Sit on the left for the best chance to spot the Pyramids near Cairo; they appear relatively small from 35,000 feet, so keep your eyes peeled. This route is often flown overnight by major carriers like Turkish Airlines; if so, choose the left side to see the sprawling, golden light grids of Cairo and the dense urban glow of Istanbul upon arrival.

Right Side Highlights
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Danakil Depression

Aerial views of one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth, featuring colorful salt flats and volcanic craters near the Ethiopian border.

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Red Sea Coastline

Spectacular views of the coral reefs and deep blue waters of the Red Sea as the plane tracks north toward the Sinai.

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Sinai Peninsula

The rugged, reddish-brown mountains of the Sinai, including the historic Mount Sinai, create a stark and beautiful desert mosaic.

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Island of Cyprus

While crossing the Mediterranean, the entire island of Cyprus is frequently visible, surrounded by deep blue sea.

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Taurus Mountains

As you enter Turkish airspace, the snow-capped Taurus range provides a dramatic entry into the Anatolian plateau.

The right side is excellent for early morning flights to catch the sunrise over the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. It offers a more continuous view of the coastal boundaries between Africa and the Middle East. If flying during the day, the contrast between the blue sea and the yellow-orange sands of the Arabian Desert to the east is breathtaking.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 5,157 km (3,204 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 4 min

Departure: MBA (-4.034830093383788, 39.594200134277344)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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