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MLX → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Malatya Erhaç Airport (Malatya) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route as it offers sweeping views of the Central Anatolian landscape, the shimmering Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake) in the distance, and a stunning approach over Lake Sapanca and the Gulf of Izmit.
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Anti-Taurus Mountains
Breathtaking views of the rugged mountain ranges south of Malatya immediately after takeoff.
Karakaya Reservoir
Aerial perspective of the massive Euphrates River dam system and its deep blue winding waters.
Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake)
On clear days, the vast white expanse of Turkey's second-largest lake is visible to the southwest.
Lake Sapanca
A beautiful blue alpine lake nestled between green mountains, seen during the final descent phase.
Gulf of Izmit
The industrial and maritime heart of the Marmara region, featuring ships and the Osmangazi Bridge.
Sit on the left for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun glare while still capturing the golden hour over the Marmara Sea. During winter, look for the snow-capped peaks of the Taurus range. This side provides the best view of the coast when the plane maneuvers for landing at SAW from the east.
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Munzur Mountains
High-altitude peaks to the north that remain snow-covered for much of the year.
Kızılırmak River
Views of Turkey's longest river as it meanders through the central Anatolian plateau.
Ankara Distant View
The sprawling urban landscape of the capital city can often be spotted on the northern horizon.
Köroğlu Mountains
Densely forested ridges near Bolu that mark the transition to the more humid Black Sea climate.
Sakarya Plain
A patchwork of agricultural fields and industrial zones as you approach the Istanbul metropolitan area.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to see the northern mountain ranges bathed in light. It offers a more 'wilderness' view of the Anatolian interior. Look for the transition from the arid yellow plains of the east to the deep green forests of the western Black Sea region.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 800 km (497 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: MLX (38.4352989197, 38.0909996033)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: Domestic
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