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MZH → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Amasya Merzifon Airport (Merzifon) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the diverse Anatolian landscape, including the lush Bolu mountains, the serene Sapanca Lake, and the industrial yet scenic Gulf of Izmit during the descent into SAW.
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Köroğlu Mountains
Dramatic views of the rugged mountain ranges in northern Central Anatolia shortly after departure.
Bolu Forest Range
Dense, vibrant green forests and highlands that characterize the transition to the Marmara region.
Sapanca Lake
A stunning freshwater lake visible on the left just before beginning the final approach phase.
Gulf of Izmit
Wide panoramic views of the sea, shipyards, and coastal infrastructure leading toward Istanbul.
Gebze Urban Landscape
The dense industrial and residential sprawl marking the entrance to the Istanbul metropolitan area.
Sit on the left for evening flights to catch the sunset reflecting off the Sea of Marmara. This side provides the best view of the Izmit bridge (Osmangazi Bridge) depending on the specific air traffic control arrival pattern. It is generally more scenic for urban and lake views.
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Pontic Mountains
Views of the northern mountain ridges that separate the Anatolian plateau from the Black Sea.
Black Sea Coastline
The endless blue horizon of the Black Sea is often visible to the north throughout the cruise.
Zonguldak Cliffs
Distant views of the rugged coastline and industrial ports of the Western Black Sea region.
Bosphorus Entrance
On clear days during a northern approach, you can spot the northern entrance to the Bosphorus Strait.
Northern Marmara Forests
The expansive green lungs of Istanbul located to the north of the city's main sprawl.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and enjoy the soft light over the Black Sea. Keep an eye out for the third Bosphorus bridge (Yavuz Sultan Selim) which can sometimes be seen in the distance if the plane tracks further north.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 522 km (324 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 52 min
Departure: MZH (40.829399, 35.521999)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: Domestic
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