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IST destination photo

OUAIST

Which side of the plane to sit from Ouagadougou Airport (Ouagadougou) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is preferred for its dramatic views of the volcanic Ahaggar Mountains in the Sahara and the high probability of seeing the historic Istanbul skyline and Bosphorus on the final descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Ahaggar Mountains

Stunning volcanic peaks and granite plateaus rising sharply from the Saharan floor in southern Algeria.

🏜️

Libyan Desert

Vast, untouched stretches of orange-hued sand and unique rock formations.

💎

Aegean Archipelago

A beautiful mosaic of white-and-blue Greek islands scattered across the Aegean Sea.

🌉

The Bosphorus

The iconic waterway separating Europe and Asia, visible during the descent into Istanbul.

🕌

Historic Peninsula

World-famous landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque if landing from the south.

The right side is essential for seeing the Hoggar/Ahaggar mountains early in the flight. For the best views of Istanbul's historic center, check the wind direction; a southerly approach typically gives this side an unparalleled view of the city and its bridges.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏜️

Grand Erg Occidental

Expansive views of the massive sand dunes in the northern Algerian Sahara.

🌊

Gulf of Gabes

The striking visual transition from the arid Tunisian desert to the deep blue Mediterranean Sea.

🏝️

Ionian Islands

Aerial views of the lush, mountainous Greek islands including Corfu and Kefalonia.

⛰️

Balkan Highlands

Rugged mountain terrain stretching across Albania and southern Bulgaria during the final cruise phase.

This side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It offers excellent views of the Mediterranean coastline and the green, mountainous landscapes of the Balkans before entering Turkish airspace.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 4,356 km (2,707 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 7 min

Departure: OUA (12.3532, -1.51242)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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