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SAW → ECN
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Ercan International Airport (Nicosia)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers a spectacular view of the rugged Uludağ mountain massif shortly after departure and provides a more dramatic perspective of the Northern Cypriot coastline and the Kyrenia mountain range during the final descent into Ercan.
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Uludağ Mountain
Look out for the highest peak in the Marmara region, often snow-covered until late spring.
Antalya-Mersin Coastline
As the plane leaves the Turkish mainland, the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean sparkle below.
Five Finger Mountains
The distinctive 'Pentadaktylos' peaks are clearly visible during the banking maneuver for landing.
Nicosia Skyline
On clear days, the divided capital city and the UN Buffer Zone can be spotted just before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Mediterranean. During descent, keep your camera ready as the plane often performs a U-turn over the sea, offering panoramic views of the northern Cyprus shoreline and the Besparmak mountains.
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Prince Islands
Shortly after take-off from SAW, enjoy a bird's-eye view of the archipelago in the Sea of Marmara.
Lake Iznik
A large, deep blue lake surrounded by olive groves visible during the initial climb south.
Taurus Mountains
Cross the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Central Taurus range as you transition from Anatolia to the Mediterranean.
Kyrenia Mountains
As you approach Ercan, the jagged peaks of the Beşparmak range appear prominently on the left.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun and to see the dawn light hitting the Anatolian plateau. In winter, this side offers the best views of the snow-covered peaks of the Bolkar Mountains.
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Get eSIMs for CyprusDistance: 736 km (457 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 14 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: ECN (35.15470123291016, 33.49610137939453)
Route Type: International
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