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MED → ISB
Which side of the plane to sit from Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport (Madinah) to New Islamabad International Airport (Islamabad)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the dramatic Zagros Mountains in Iran and the majestic peaks of the Sulaiman Range as you enter Pakistan, providing a more rugged and high-altitude visual experience.
Al-Masjid an-Nabawi
During takeoff from MED, enjoy an unparalleled aerial view of the Prophet's Mosque and the holy city's unique circular urban layout.
Harrat Rahat
Look down at the vast black volcanic lava fields of Saudi Arabia, one of the largest basaltic plateaus in the kingdom.
Zagros Fold Belt
As you cross Iran, witness the spectacular parallel ridges and deep valleys of the Zagros Mountains, often dusted with snow.
Sulaiman Range
Experience the dramatic limestone ridges that mark the transition from the Iranian Plateau to the Indus River valley.
Hindu Kush Vistas
On clear days during the descent into Islamabad, look north to see the towering, snow-capped peaks of the Hindu Kush in the far distance.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. This side provides the best lighting for photography of the Iranian mountain folds and the rugged terrain of northern Balochistan. Ensure your window is clear of scratches to capture the distant Himalayan and Hindu Kush horizons upon descent.
Ad-Dahna Desert
Observe the striking orange sand dunes of the 'Small Nafud' desert as you traverse the central Arabian Peninsula.
Gulf Coastline
Catch views of the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf, including various oil platforms and natural islands near the UAE coast.
Makran Coastal Range
View the incredible 'Mars-like' geological formations and white clay cliffs where the Balochistan mountains meet the Arabian Sea.
Indus River Basin
Watch the massive Indus River snake through the fertile plains of Punjab, creating intricate patterns of green farmland and water channels.
The Salt Range
Identify the ancient, weathered hills of the Salt Range, home to the Khewra Salt Mines, just before the final approach into ISB.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Arabian Sea and the Makran coast. Keep a lookout for the glowing skylines of Gulf cities like Dubai or Sharjah if the flight path tracks southward. It is also the best side to see the sprawling agricultural grid of the Punjab region during the landing phase.
Distance: 3,357 km (2,086 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 57 min
Departure: MED (24.5534, 39.705101)
Arrival: ISB (33.560713, 72.851613)
Route Type: International
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