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MSR destination photo
SAW destination photo

MSRSAW

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic Bingöl and Munzur mountain ranges during the first half of the flight, followed by a scenic descent past Lake Sapanca and the industrial landscapes of the Marmara region.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Bingöl Mountains

Rugged, high-altitude peaks providing a dramatic backdrop immediately after departing Muş.

🛣️

Euphrates River Valley

The winding path of the Upper Euphrates cutting through the Anatolian highlands.

🌲

Bolu Mountains

Lush, forested ridges that mark the transition from the central plateau to the Marmara region.

🏞️

Sapanca Lake

A stunning blue freshwater lake located just east of the destination, visible during the descent.

🏭

Kocaeli Industrial Belt

A bird's-eye view of the massive shipyards and industrial infrastructure surrounding Izmit.

The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. It offers the best views of Sapanca Lake, which is a major landmark on the SAW approach. Look for the North Anatolian Fault line's geographical signatures in the terrain during the mid-flight segment.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛰️

Muş Plain

Aerial view of the fertile basin surrounded by the Southeastern Taurus mountain range shortly after takeoff.

💧

Keban Dam Reservoir

The sprawling, turquoise waters of one of Turkey's largest man-made lakes near Elazığ.

🌋

Mount Erciyes

On clear days, the distant snow-capped peak of this massive stratovolcano is visible to the south near Kayseri.

🌊

Gulf of İzmit

Dramatic coastline views as the plane aligns for its final approach into Sabiha Gökçen.

Sit on the left side during evening flights to witness the sunset over the Anatolian plateau. This side is also better for spotting the Gulf of İzmit if the aircraft approaches SAW from the south. Keep an eye out for the Keban Dam about 20-30 minutes into the flight.

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Route Information

Distance: 1,081 km (672 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min

Departure: MSR (38.74779891967773, 41.66120147705078)

Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)

Route Type: Domestic

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