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SAW → MLX
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Malatya Erhaç Airport (Malatya)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring the stunning Sapanca Lake early in the flight and the dramatic landscape of the Euphrates River and Karakaya Dam reservoir during the descent into Malatya.
Sapanca Lake
A vibrant blue freshwater lake surrounded by greenery, visible within 10-15 minutes of departure.
Central Anatolian Steppe
The vast, golden-hued high plateau that defines the heart of the Turkish landscape.
Anti-Taurus Mountains
Impressive snow-capped peaks that provide a dramatic backdrop as the aircraft heads east.
Karakaya Dam Reservoir
One of Turkey's largest man-made lakes, appearing as a massive turquoise expanse amidst the dry terrain.
Euphrates River Valley
The historic and deep-cut canyons carved by the Euphrates just before the final approach to Malatya.
Sit on the right side for the most iconic views of the Eastern Anatolian geography. The approach to Malatya Erhaç (MLX) frequently passes over the Karakaya Dam, which is best viewed from this side. For evening flights, this side offers spectacular sunset views over the Taurus mountains.
Bolu Forest Ranges
Dense, lush green mountain forests of the Western Black Sea region visible shortly after takeoff.
Köroğlu Mountains
A rugged mountain chain that marks the transition from the coastal climate to the Anatolian plateau.
Kızılırmak River
The distinctive red-hued waters of Turkey's longest river winding through the central valleys.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the glare of the southern sun. It provides the clearest views of the rolling green hills and the northern Anatolian mountain ridges.
Distance: 800 km (497 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: MLX (38.4352989197, 38.0909996033)
Route Type: Domestic
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