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SAW → MQM
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Mardin Airport (Mardin)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior view of the iconic Salt Lake in Central Anatolia and the breathtaking approach over the Mesopotamian plains toward the hilltop city of Mardin.
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Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake)
One of the world's largest salt lakes, appearing as a massive brilliant white expanse in the distance.
Mount Erciyes
A magnificent dormant volcano and Turkey's highest peak in Central Anatolia, standing tall near Kayseri.
Mesopotamian Plains
The 'Fertile Crescent' stretching endlessly toward the Syrian border, looking like a golden sea from above.
Old Mardin Skyline
During the final approach, the historic stone houses and minarets of Mardin perched on a rocky cliff are often visible.
Atatürk Dam
The massive scale of the Southeastern Anatolia Project's centerpiece reservoir can be spotted to the south.
The right side is essential for the arrival sequence. As the plane descends into MQM, the transition from rugged mountains to the flat Mesopotamian plain is stark. Sunset flights on this side offer a stunning 'golden hour' glow over the ancient landscape.
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Sapanca Lake
A beautiful freshwater lake visible shortly after departure from SAW, nestled between green hills.
Munzur Mountains
Dramatic snow-capped peaks of the Eastern Taurus range visible as you traverse towards the southeast.
Keban Dam Reservoir
Large, deep blue fingers of the Euphrates River reservoir cutting through the rugged Anatolian terrain.
Anatolian Plateaus
A patchwork of high-altitude agricultural fields showing vibrant colors depending on the season.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to enjoy soft lighting over the mountains. Keep an eye out for the thermal power plants and mining operations near Elazig which create unique geometric patterns on the ground.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 1,059 km (658 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: MQM (37.2233009338, 40.6316986084)
Route Type: Domestic
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