SCO → IST

Caspian Shoreline

The stark contrast between the turquoise Caspian Sea and the white limestone cliffs of Kazakhstan upon departure.

Caucasus Mountains

Spectacular views of the rugged, snow-peaked Great Caucasus range stretching across the southern horizon.

Mount Elbrus

The dormant volcano and highest peak in Europe is often visible to the south of the flight path in clear weather.

Pontic Mountains

The dense forests and misty ridges of Turkey's Black Sea region as the aircraft approaches the Anatolian coast.

The Bosphorus

A classic view of the strait connecting the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara during the final descent into Istanbul.

Open Caspian

A vast, meditative view of the open sea as the aircraft leaves the Kazakh coast and heads west toward Europe.

Southern Steppes

Looking north toward the flat, agricultural landscapes and river deltas of the Russian Kuban region.

Black Sea Horizon

Watch for cargo ships and tankers queuing for entry into the Bosphorus Strait from the deep blue waters.

IST Approach

Aerial views of the massive, modern architecture of the Istanbul Airport terminal complex and northern forest zones.