Loading map...
SJJ → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Sarajevo International Airport (Sarajevo) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
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.
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.
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.
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
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.