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SAW → SHJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Sharjah International Airport (Sharjah)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the historic Mesopotamian plains, the dramatic Taurus Mountains, and a clearer perspective of the Arabian Peninsula's coastline upon arrival.
Tuz Gölü
One of the world's largest hyper-saline lakes, appearing as a massive white expanse in Central Anatolia.
Taurus Mountains
Spectacular limestone ridges and deep valleys as the flight crosses southern Turkey.
Mesopotamian Rivers
The winding paths of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers through the Iraqi floodplains.
UAE Islands
Views of the World Islands and Palm Jumeirah if the flight path tracks slightly west before landing.
Burj Khalifa
The iconic Dubai skyline is often visible on the right side during the descent into Sharjah.
Sit on the right side for the most iconic views of the 'Cradle of Civilization'. On evening flights, this side offers a stunning sunset over the Arabian Desert. Keep your camera ready about 30 minutes before landing for the UAE's coastal architecture.
Pontic Mountains
The rugged, often snow-capped peaks of northeastern Turkey shortly after departure.
Zagros Mountains
Extensive views of the folded mountain belts of Western Iran during the mid-flight segment.
Iranian Coastline
Dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters where the mountains meet the Persian Gulf.
Sharjah Lagoons
Direct views of the Al Majaz Waterfront and Khalid Lagoon during the final approach.
Choose this side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and enjoy the dramatic shadows over the Iranian Zagros range. It is also the best side for spotting the lights of Tehran in the distance during night flights.
Distance: 2,973 km (1,847 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 58 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: SHJ (25.32859992980957, 55.5172004699707)
Route Type: International
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