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SAW → DIY
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Diyarbakir Airport (Diyabakir)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular sequence of landmarks, including the Marmara archipelago, the massive Salt Lake on the horizon, the towering Mount Erciyes volcano, and the massive dam reservoirs of the Euphrates river.
Prince Islands
Immediately after takeoff from SAW, look down for the cluster of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara.
Lake Tuz
On clear days, the brilliant white salt flats of Turkey's second-largest lake are visible in the distance.
Mount Erciyes
The majestic, snow-covered peak of this 3,917-meter dormant volcano is a highlight near Kayseri.
Karakaya Dam
The massive, turquoise waters of the Euphrates river reservoirs create a stunning contrast with the arid terrain.
Diyarbakır City Walls
During the final approach, try to spot the ancient black basalt walls that form the heart of the historic city.
The right side is the 'sun side' on this eastbound route; use a window shade if flying in the afternoon to avoid glare. For the best views of Mount Erciyes and the Euphrates dams, mid-morning flights offer the most clarity. During descent into DIY, this side often provides a clearer view of the Tigris River basin.
Black Sea Coastline
During the initial climb, catch glimpses of the deep blue Black Sea stretching toward the northern horizon.
Bolu Mountains
Dense, lush green forests and the rolling peaks of the Western Black Sea mountain range.
Kızılırmak River
Observe the distinctive curves and loops of Turkey's longest internal river as it snakes through Central Anatolia.
Munzur Range
Rugged and often snow-capped limestone peaks that define the dramatic landscape of Eastern Anatolia.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights, as the sun will be on the opposite side. This side is also better for spotting the lush green transition from the Marmara region into the drier Anatolian interior. Watch for the 'Haliç' like river bends near the middle of the flight.
Distance: 993 km (617 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: DIY (37.893901825, 40.2010002136)
Route Type: Domestic
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