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PEK → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the high Caucasus mountain range, including Europe's highest peak, Mount Elbrus, and the sprawling landscapes of the Central Asian steppe.
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Mongolian Steppe
Vast, undulating grasslands stretching across the northern flight path.
Lake Balkhash
A massive, crescent-shaped lake in Kazakhstan with unique turquoise waters.
Aral Karakum
The dramatic and sobering landscape of the receding Aral Sea basin.
Mount Elbrus
The iconic double-peak of Europe's highest mountain in the Caucasus range.
Black Sea Coast
Panoramic views of the Russian and Georgian coastlines meeting the deep blue sea.
This side is best for daytime flights to avoid the harsh southern sun glare while viewing the snow-capped Caucasus. Keep an eye out approximately 6-7 hours into the flight for the most dramatic mountain scenery.
Book Hotels in IstanbulOrdos Loop
The rugged terrain where the Yellow River bends through northern China.
Tien Shan Range
Distant views of the 'Celestial Mountains' along the southern horizon.
Southern Caspian
Crossing the world's largest inland sea with views toward the Iranian plateau.
Pontic Mountains
The lush, mist-covered mountain ridges lining the northern coast of Turkey.
Bosphorus Approach
Spectacular views of the bridges and the strait separating Asia and Europe during descent.
The left side is premier for the final descent into Istanbul, especially if the aircraft approaches from the east over the Bosphorus. For evening departures from Beijing, this side provides better views of the southern Silk Road cities' lights.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 7,059 km (4,386 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 18 min
Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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