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SJJ destination photo
SAW destination photo

SJJSAW

Our Recommendation
8.9

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the highest peaks of the Balkan Peninsula and an iconic approach over the Sea of Marmara into Istanbul's Asian side.

Right Side Highlights
8.9
🏔️

Sutjeska National Park

Home to Maglić, Bosnia's highest peak, and one of the last primary rainforests in Europe.

🏔️

Rila & Pirin Ranges

Spectacular views of Bulgaria's highest alpine peaks, often snow-capped well into late spring.

🏝️

Princes' Islands

The picturesque archipelago in the Sea of Marmara, including Büyükada and Heybeliada, during the descent.

🌊

Sea of Marmara

Dozens of cargo ships anchored and waiting to enter the Bosphorus Strait visible just before touchdown.

🏠

Asian Istanbul

The dense, colorful urban landscape of the Pendik and Kartal districts during the final seconds of the flight.

The right side is the clear winner for scenic variety. For the best photography of the Sea of Marmara and the Princes' Islands, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you. Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes before landing as the plane descends over the Turkish coastline.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
⛰️

Romanija Plateau

Stunning limestone cliffs and forested highlands immediately east of Sarajevo visible during the initial climb.

🏙️

Sofia Basin

The Bulgarian capital and the surrounding Vitosha mountain range often appear to the north of the flight path.

🌊

Black Sea Horizon

As the aircraft nears the Turkish coast, the deep blue of the Black Sea is visible to the north.

Sit on the left if you prefer views of the Balkan Mountains' northern slopes and want to avoid direct sunlight during midday flights. During the final approach to SAW, you might catch a distant glimpse of the Bosphorus bridges depending on the wind direction.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 958 km (595 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min

Departure: SJJ (43.82460021972656, 18.331499099731445)

Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)

Route Type: International

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