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SAW → TIA
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Tirana International Airport Mother Teresa (Tirana)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unparalleled view of Istanbul's historic peninsula upon departure and a spectacular look at Lake Ohrid and the Albanian Alps during the descent.
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Istanbul Historic Peninsula
Direct views of the Bosphorus, Hagia Sophia, and the Golden Horn if the flight path tracks slightly north over the city.
Lake Ohrid
One of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes, straddling the border of North Macedonia and Albania, appearing crystal blue from above.
Mount Korab
The highest peak in Albania and North Macedonia, part of the dramatic Sar Mountains massif.
Krujë Mountain
The steep cliffs and historic Krujë fortress are visible on the right during the final descent into Mother Teresa Airport.
Choose the right side for the best chance to photograph the Istanbul skyline. As the plane descends into Tirana, look for the transition from the high Balkan peaks to the coastal plains. Late afternoon flights provide beautiful golden-hour lighting on the Albanian mountains.
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Prince Islands
A scenic cluster of islands in the Sea of Marmara visible immediately after departing from Sabiha Gökçen.
Saros Bay
The deep blue waters of the northern Aegean coastline often come into view as you cross the Thracian peninsula.
Pindus Mountain Range
Extensive views of the rugged, often snow-capped peaks of northern Greece during the mid-portion of the flight.
The left side is preferable for morning flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, reducing window glare. Keep a close watch shortly after takeoff to see the ferry lanes crisscrossing the Sea of Marmara.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for AlbaniaDistance: 804 km (500 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: TIA (41.4146995544, 19.7206001282)
Route Type: International
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