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OVB destination photo
IST destination photo

OVBIST

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a stunning panorama of the Greater Caucasus mountain range and a superior vantage point for the Bosphorus Strait during the final approach into Istanbul.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏞️

Ob River

Breathtaking views of the winding Siberian river system shortly after takeoff from Novosibirsk.

🌾

Northern Steppes

The vast, golden expanses of the Russian and Kazakh plains stretching toward the horizon.

🌊

Caspian Sea

A crossing over the world's largest inland body of water, showing its deep blue and turquoise hues.

🏔️

Greater Caucasus

Clear views of the snow-capped mountain range, including Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe.

🌉

Bosphorus Strait

The iconic waterway dividing Europe and Asia, often visible during the descent into IST.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to see the Caucasus peaks illuminated by the sun. As the plane descends into Istanbul, this side usually offers the best view of the Asian side's shoreline and the bridges connecting the continents.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Novosibirsk City

Aerial view of Russia's third-largest city and its industrial landscapes during departure.

⛰️

Southern Urals

The gentle, ancient peaks marking the geographic border between Asia and Europe.

💧

Volga River

A view of the winding path of Europe's longest river as it flows toward the Caspian.

🌊

Sea of Azov

In the distance, the shallowest sea in the world and the northern Crimean coastline.

🏗️

Istanbul Airport Complex

Detailed views of the massive modern architecture and runways of the new Istanbul Airport.

The right side is ideal for late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Black Sea. On the final approach, it provides an excellent view of the European side's forest preserves and the massive infrastructure surrounding the new airport.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 4,159 km (2,584 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 54 min

Departure: OVB (55.012599945068, 82.650703430176)

Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)

Route Type: International

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