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SAW → BLQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (Bologna)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this route as it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Venetian Lagoon and the snow-capped Alps in the distance during the descent into the Po Valley.
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Istanbul Skyline
A stunning view of the historic peninsula and the Bosphorus Strait if the aircraft departs towards the west.
Rila and Pirin Mountains
The highest peaks of the Balkan Peninsula in Bulgaria, often covered in snow during winter and spring.
Dinaric Alps
Dramatic limestone mountain ranges stretching through Montenegro, Bosnia, and Croatia.
Venetian Lagoon
The iconic shape of Venice and its surrounding islands are frequently visible about 20 minutes before landing.
Po Valley
A geometric patchwork of lush agricultural fields and rivers that define the fertile heart of Northern Italy.
This is the 'Venice Side.' About 20-30 minutes before landing, look out the window to spot the distinctive 'S' shape of the Grand Canal. Morning flights provide the best light for photography of the Bulgarian and Balkan mountains.
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Sea of Marmara
Deep blue waters immediately after takeoff from Istanbul, often dotted with cargo ships waiting for the Bosphorus.
Dalmatian Archipelago
The intricate network of Croatian islands and the turquoise coastline of the Adriatic Sea.
San Marino
The world's oldest republic perched atop Mount Titano may be visible on the approach to Bologna.
Central Apennines
The rugged mountainous spine of Italy as the plane begins its final descent into the Emilia-Romagna region.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to keep the sun behind the aircraft, providing better lighting for the Croatian coastline. Watch for the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Balkan coast halfway through the flight.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for ItalyDistance: 1,523 km (946 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 2 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: BLQ (44.5354, 11.2887)
Route Type: International
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