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SOF → TLV
Which side of the plane to sit from Sofia Airport (Sofia) to Ben Gurion International Airport (Tel-aviv)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides spectacular views of the Rhodope Mountains, the intricate coastline of Western Turkey, and a direct view of the Tel Aviv metropolitan area during the final approach.
Rhodope Mountains
Shortly after takeoff, view the rolling green peaks and deep valleys of Southern Bulgaria.
Turkish Aegean Coast
Glimpses of the Izmir region and the winding coastline of the Anatolian peninsula.
Island of Rhodes
A clear view of the largest Dodecanese island, known for its medieval architecture and emerald waters.
Cyprus North Coast
Distant views of the Kyrenia mountain range stretching across the northern horizon of Cyprus.
Tel Aviv Skyline
As the plane turns for Ben Gurion, see the skyscrapers of the 'White City' and the Mediterranean coastline.
For morning flights, the left side offers softer lighting without the direct glare of the sun. This side is particularly rewarding during the descent as the flight path usually follows the Israeli coast southward before turning east, providing a panoramic view of the urban landscape.
Rila and Pirin Ranges
Rugged alpine scenery and glacial lakes visible during the initial climb from Sofia.
Mount Athos
Distant views of the monastic peninsula sticking out into the North Aegean Sea.
Cyclades Islands
Aerial patterns of the scattered Greek islands appearing as white dots in the deep blue sea.
Mediterranean Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the sunset on afternoon/evening flights over the open sea.
Old City of Jaffa
Look for the ancient port of Jaffa just south of the Tel Aviv beaches during the final approach.
Choose the right side for sunset flights to enjoy the transition of colors over the Mediterranean. While the middle of the flight is mostly over water, the view of the Bulgarian mountains during takeoff is superior on this side.
Distance: 1,559 km (969 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 5 min
Departure: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)
Arrival: TLV (32.011398315429695, 34.88669967651367)
Route Type: International
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