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OSM → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Mosul International Airport (Mosul) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the dramatic Tigris River valley, the massive Atatürk Dam reservoir, and the snow-capped Anti-Taurus mountain ranges, followed by a potential view of the Bosphorus on approach.
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Tigris River Valley
Watch the ancient river carve through the rugged terrain of Southeastern Anatolia.
Atatürk Dam
One of the world's largest reservoirs, appearing as a massive turquoise sea amidst the brown hills.
Anti-Taurus Mountains
High-altitude peaks that remain snow-capped well into the summer months, providing dramatic relief.
Anatolian Plateau
The high central plains of Turkey, featuring unique geological formations and scattered salt lakes.
The Bosphorus
The iconic waterway separating Europe and Asia, often visible just before landing at Istanbul Airport.
The right side provides the most consistent scenic value throughout the mid-flight. Look out for the Atatürk Dam approximately 40 minutes after takeoff. If landing from the north, this side offers an incredible view of the Black Sea coastline and the Third Bosphorus Bridge. Use a window seat forward of the wing for the best panoramic photography of the Taurus peaks.
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Mosul Urban Landscape
Aerial view of the historic city and the Tigris River as the flight departs to the northwest.
Sinjar Mountains
A prominent 100km long ridge rising sharply from the surrounding flat Mesopotamian plains.
Upper Mesopotamia
The fertile crescent's agricultural patchwork crossing the border regions of Iraq, Syria, and Turkey.
Sea of Marmara
Deep blue waters and the Prince's Islands visible during the final descent into Istanbul.
Historic Peninsula
On southern approaches, get a glimpse of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque on the European side.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the historic Sultanahmet district and the Golden Horn if the plane approaches IST from the south. Choose a seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the Istanbul skyline isn't blocked during the banking turns. Morning flights are ideal to keep the sun behind the aircraft.
Get eSIMs for Iraq
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 1,362 km (846 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 49 min
Departure: OSM (36.305801, 43.1474)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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