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SAW → BCN
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Barcelona International Airport (Barcelona)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft is superior for this trans-European route as it offers breathtaking views of the Balkan mountains, the Italian coastline near Rome, the glamorous French Riviera, and the iconic city grid of Barcelona during the final descent.
Balkan Mountains
Fly over the snow-capped peaks and deep green valleys of Bulgaria and Serbia shortly after reaching cruising altitude.
The Eternal City
Depending on the specific airway, the Italian coastline and the sprawling outskirts of Rome are frequently visible.
French Riviera
Spot the high-density luxury developments of Monaco, Nice, and Cannes as the flight hugs the southern coast of France.
Barcelona Cityscape
On the standard approach to Runway 24R, you get a perfect view of the Sagrada Familia and the Eixample district's grid.
The right side is highly recommended for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Mediterranean. During the descent into BCN, keep your camera ready as the plane turns toward the coast, offering a spectacular panoramic view of the city's unique architecture and the Montserrat mountain range in the background.
Sea of Marmara
Immediately after takeoff from SAW, enjoy views of the Princes' Islands and the deep blue waters separating Europe and Asia.
Sardinia's North Coast
As you cross the Tyrrhenian Sea, the rugged cliffs and turquoise bays of northern Sardinia often come into view.
Balearic Sea
A vast expanse of the Mediterranean where you can spot white wakes of ferries traveling between Mallorca and the mainland.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the southern sun. This side is also excellent for spotting the Balearic Islands in the distance and enjoying a tranquil sea-view approach if the wind dictates a landing from the south.
Distance: 2,273 km (1,412 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 2 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: BCN (41.2971, 2.07846)
Route Type: International
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