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STN → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from London Stansted Airport (London) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers superior views of the High Alps during the cruise phase and a more dramatic perspective of the Sea of Marmara and the Istanbul skyline during the final approach into Sabiha Gökçen.
The Swiss and Austrian Alps
Stunning, close-up views of the snow-capped central Alpine massif, including glaciers and high-altitude peaks.
Lake Constance
The massive 'Bodensee' lake bordering Germany, Switzerland, and Austria is a major landmark halfway through the flight.
Balkan Mountains
Rugged, forested ridges stretching across Serbia and Bulgaria, offering dramatic shadows during the late afternoon.
Princes' Islands
Just before landing at SAW, the aircraft often banks over the Sea of Marmara, showing the cluster of islands off the coast of Istanbul.
Bosphorus & Istanbul
Breathtaking views of the strait dividing Europe and Asia, with the historical peninsula visible in the distance.
The right side is the 'mountain side' for this route. Aim for a seat behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the Alps. During the SAW arrival, the right side usually provides the best view of the Marmara coastline and the Asian side's rapid urban expansion.
Thames Estuary
Aerial view of the industrial and natural landscape where the River Thames meets the North Sea shortly after takeoff.
Brussels & Benelux
Clear views of the dense urban clusters and intricate canal systems across Belgium and the Netherlands.
Munich & Bavaria
The sprawling city of Munich and the distinct Allianz Arena are often visible as the flight path crosses southern Germany.
The Black Sea
As the plane begins its descent over Bulgaria and northern Turkey, the vast dark blue expanse of the Black Sea appears to the north.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, providing better conditions for photography. On a northern approach to SAW, you may catch a glimpse of the third Bosphorus bridge.
Distance: 2,518 km (1,565 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 21 min
Departure: STN (51.8849983215, 0.234999999404)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: International
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