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SAW → GNY
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Şanlıurfa GAP Airport (Sanliurfa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is preferred primarily for the spectacular approach into Şanlıurfa, providing an expansive view of the Atatürk Dam and the winding Euphrates River valley.
Prince Islands
A beautiful view of the island cluster in the Sea of Marmara shortly after departure.
Tuz Gölü
The brilliant white salt crust of Turkey's second-largest lake shimmering on the horizon.
Atatürk Reservoir
The massive turquoise waters of the reservoir created by one of the world's largest earth-fill dams.
Euphrates River
The historic Fırat River as it cuts through the arid landscape of Upper Mesopotamia.
Upper Mesopotamia
The transition from the Taurus foothills to the ancient, fertile plains of the southeast.
This is the 'money side' for this route. The descent over the Atatürk Dam is the highlight; ensure you are ready with a camera about 15 minutes before landing. Morning flights offer the best, most balanced lighting for photography of the water features.
Gulf of Izmit
Aerial perspective of the industrial heartland and the Osmangazi Bridge crossing the narrow gulf.
Bolu Mountains
Lush green ridges and forested peaks of the Western Black Sea transition zone.
Mount Erciyes
On clear days, the massive snow-capped volcanic peak near Kayseri is visible in the distance.
Anatolian Steppe
Geometric patterns of agricultural fields stretching across the high central plateau.
Sit here if you are traveling during the late afternoon to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep an eye out for the distinct peak of Erciyes roughly 45 minutes into the flight.
Distance: 911 km (566 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: GNY (37.445663, 38.895592)
Route Type: Domestic
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