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SAW → BUD
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport (Budapest)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Black Sea coastline shortly after takeoff and typically provides the most iconic views of the Danube River and the Budapest city center during the final approach.
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Black Sea Coastline
Stunning views of the Turkish 'Emerald Coast' as the aircraft turns northwest toward Europe.
Balkan Mountains
The main ridge of the Stara Planina range stretching across the heart of Bulgaria.
Danube River
Dramatic views of Europe's second-longest river as it winds through the borders of Romania, Serbia, and Hungary.
Budapest Approach
Panoramic views of the Hungarian Parliament, the Chain Bridge, and the Buda Castle district during the descent.
The right side is highly recommended for the descent into BUD. If landing from the southeast (Runway 31), you will have a front-row seat to the Danube and the city skyline. Late afternoon flights provide a beautiful golden hour glow over the Hungarian capital.
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Sea of Marmara
Aerial perspective of the Princes' Islands and the southern shoreline of Istanbul shortly after departure.
Sofia Valley
Views of the Bulgarian capital and the surrounding Vitosha mountain massif to the south.
Pannonian Basin
The transition into the vast, flat agricultural landscapes of northern Serbia and southern Hungary.
Sit on the left if you want to see the outskirts of Istanbul and the inland Balkan mountain ranges. Morning flights offer the best lighting for this side as the sun is positioned to the southeast.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for HungaryDistance: 1,080 km (671 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: BUD (47.429759999999995, 19.261093)
Route Type: International
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