Loading map...
NBO → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the dramatic Red Sea coastline, the rugged peaks of Mount Kenya shortly after takeoff, and the iconic Bosphorus Strait during the final approach into Istanbul.
Search flights from NBO to IST
Mount Kenya
Look east shortly after takeoff to see the jagged, glaciated peaks of Africa's second-highest mountain.
Danakil Depression
The otherworldly, salt-crusted landscapes of one of the lowest and hottest places on Earth in northern Ethiopia.
Red Sea Coastline
Stunning contrast between the deep blue water, coral reefs, and the rugged desert mountains of Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
Turkish Riviera
The turquoise waters and white beaches of the Antalya coastline as the flight crosses the Mediterranean.
Bosphorus Strait
Depending on the landing pattern, catch the iconic waterway dividing Europe and Asia and the Golden Horn.
The right side is the star for morning flights, offering a front-row seat to the sun rising over the Red Sea. Keep your eyes peeled roughly 15-20 minutes after takeoff for Mount Kenya. For the best views of the Bosphorus on arrival, try to sit toward the front of the cabin to avoid wing obstruction.
Book Hotels in Istanbul
Aberdare Range
Lush, forested volcanic mountains visible shortly after departing Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International.
The Blue Nile
Follow the winding path of the Nile as it carves through the dramatic Ethiopian highlands and Sudanese plains.
Sahara Desert
Expansive views of the Eastern Desert's rocky plateaus and shifting golden sands across Egypt.
Nile Delta
The vibrant green fan of the Nile meeting the Mediterranean Sea near Alexandria.
Western Taurus Mountains
Deep limestone canyons and snow-capped ridges as you enter Turkish airspace from the south.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. This side is ideal for spotting the green belt of the Nile against the desert. During the final approach to IST, you often get a better view of Istanbul's European urban sprawl.
Get eSIMs for Kenya
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 4,808 km (2,988 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 39 min
Departure: NBO (-1.31923997402, 36.9277992249)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.