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SAW → GZT
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Gaziantep International Airport (Gaziantep)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of Turkey's diverse interior, including the massive Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü), the majestic snow-capped volcanic peak of Mount Erciyes, and a more dramatic perspective of the Taurus Mountain range crossing.
Prince Islands
A stunning view of the archipelago in the Marmara Sea immediately after takeoff from SAW.
Lake Sapanca
A large, bright blue freshwater lake located near the Sakarya province shortly after departure.
Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü)
One of the world's largest hypersaline lakes, appearing as a massive white salt flat mid-flight.
Mount Erciyes
The towering, snow-covered volcanic peak near Kayseri, often visible standing high above the clouds.
Central Taurus Mountains
Spectacular ridges and geological formations as the aircraft crosses the Bolkar and Aladağlar ranges.
Gaziantep Approach
A wide view of the city’s ancient layout and the surrounding famous pistachio groves before landing.
This side is best for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing to spot Mount Erciyes, which is the geographical highlight of this route. In summer, the Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü) will appear brilliantly white, while in winter it may reflect the sky like a giant mirror.
Izmit Gulf
Aerial views of the industrial heartland and the narrow strip of the Marmara Sea stretching eastward.
Bolu Mountain Range
Dense green forests and rugged peaks that characterize the transition to the Black Sea region.
Ankara Northern Suburbs
A distant view of the capital city's expansion across the rugged Central Anatolian terrain.
Anti-Taurus Mountains
Jagged limestone peaks and deep valleys as the flight begins its descent into Upper Mesopotamia.
Euphrates River Basin
The silver thread of the historic Euphrates river winding through the arid southeastern landscape.
Sit on the left for afternoon flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. Watch for the dramatic change from the green northern mountains to the arid, golden tones of the southeast as you pass Ankara. The Euphrates river is most visible during the final 15 minutes of the descent.
Distance: 832 km (517 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: GZT (36.9472007751, 37.4786987305)
Route Type: Domestic
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