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SSH → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (Sharm El Sheikh) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Sinai interior's rugged peaks, the dramatic transition across the Mediterranean to the Turkish Turquoise Coast, and the scenic Lake District of Anatolia.
Search flights from SSH to IST
Sinai Mountains
Spectacular view of the jagged peaks and the area surrounding St. Catherine's Monastery.
Suez Canal Exit
Distant views of the canal's Mediterranean entrance and the city of Port Said.
Antalya Coast
A stunning entry into Turkey over the Mediterranean's vibrant turquoise waters and beaches.
Taurus Range
Crossing the dramatic, often snow-capped peaks of the Western Taurus mountains.
Lake Eğirdir
A massive, vibrant blue lake nestled within the Anatolian mountain landscape.
Istanbul Peninsula
Aerial views of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque during a southern approach to the airport.
Opt for a morning flight to catch the clearest desert light over the Sinai. On afternoon flights, the left side will face the sun, which can make photography difficult but offers beautiful sunset colors over the Mediterranean. Watch for the Turkish coastline about 60 minutes before arrival.
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Tiran Island
Crystal clear views of the coral reefs and the Straits of Tiran immediately after takeoff.
Saudi Coastline
The mountainous coastline of the Tabuk region across the Gulf of Aqaba.
Cyprus
The northern coastline and the Pentadaktylos mountains are often visible mid-flight.
Alanya Castle
The historic rocky promontory jutting into the Mediterranean Sea.
Bosphorus Strait
The iconic waterway dividing Europe and Asia visible during the final descent into Istanbul.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid direct sunlight glare. It provides the best perspective of the Bosphorus and the Asian side of Istanbul if the aircraft approaches from the north. Look for the island of Cyprus roughly 45-50 minutes after departure from Sharm El Sheikh.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 1,565 km (972 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 5 min
Departure: SSH (27.9773006439, 34.3950004578)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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