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SAW → IKA
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Imam Khomeini International Airport (Tehran)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the most iconic landmarks of the region, specifically the legendary Mount Ararat and the towering Alborz Mountains during the approach to Tehran.
Search flights from SAW to IKA
Black Sea Coast
Catch views of the lush green coastline during departure from Istanbul.
Pontic Mountains
Rugged peaks of Northeast Anatolia often covered in snow or clouds.
Mount Ararat
The iconic twin peaks of Turkey's highest mountain near the Iranian border.
Lake Urmia
Observe the unique colors and salt formations of this large Iranian salt lake.
Alborz Range
Massive mountains north of Tehran appearing during the final descent phase.
For the best view of Mount Ararat, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you. This landmark appears approximately 100-110 minutes after takeoff. Sit near the front or back to avoid the wing blocking the towering Alborz peaks during the IKA descent.
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Central Anatolia
Expansive, arid plateaus and dramatic geological formations of inner Turkey.
Lake Van
Turkey's largest lake, featuring stunning turquoise waters and volcanic surroundings.
Mount Süphan
A majestic stratovolcano standing tall on the northern shores of Lake Van.
Zagros Folds
Incredible parallel mountain ridges creating a unique washboard landscape.
Dasht-e Kavir
The edge of the Great Salt Desert visible as you approach southern Tehran.
Late afternoon flights provide stunning golden hour lighting over the Zagros Mountains. Lake Van is a massive landmark visible for nearly 15 minutes mid-flight. Look for the distinct turquoise color contrast against the surrounding brown volcanic soil.
Book Hotels in TehranDistance: 1,999 km (1,242 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 40 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: IKA (35.416099548339844, 51.152198791503906)
Route Type: International
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