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NDJ → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from N'Djamena International Airport (N'djamena) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the Saharan rock formations to the turquoise Turkish coastline and the iconic Bosphorus Strait.
Ennedi Massif
Incredible sandstone arches and canyons located in the remote northeastern corner of Chad.
Kufra Irrigation
Distinctive green circular crop patterns created by center-pivot irrigation in the middle of the Libyan desert.
Turkish Riviera
The stunning Turquoise Coast where the Taurus Mountains meet the Mediterranean near Dalaman.
Taurus Mountains
Stunning snow-capped peaks that run parallel to the southern Turkish coast.
Bosphorus Strait
The world-famous waterway dividing Europe and Asia, usually visible during the northern approach.
The right side is ideal for capturing the unique circular farm patterns in Libya and the dramatic entry into Turkish airspace. On night flights, sit on the right to see the brightly lit Bosphorus bridges and the dense urban sprawl of Istanbul's Asian side as you land.
Lake Chad
Visible shortly after takeoff from N'Djamena, offering a view of the vast but shrinking freshwater basin.
Tibesti Mountains
Dramatic volcanic peaks and dark rock formations rising from the central Sahara desert.
Crete
The largest Greek island, showcasing rugged mountain ranges and a jagged Mediterranean coastline.
The Cyclades
Clusters of small, picturesque Greek islands dotting the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
Historical Peninsula
A view of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque as the plane aligns for its final descent into Istanbul.
Choose the left side for the best chance to see the remnants of Lake Chad early in the flight. During the descent into IST, this side often provides a stunning perspective of the historical European side of the city, especially if the flight approach path comes from the south over the Sea of Marmara.
Distance: 3,505 km (2,178 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 7 min
Departure: NDJ (12.1337, 15.034)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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