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SYZ → IFN
Which side of the plane to sit from Shiraz Shahid Dastghaib International Airport (Shiraz) to Esfahan Shahid Beheshti International Airport (Esfahan)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for viewing Iran's most iconic archaeological treasures, including the ruins of Persepolis and Naqsh-e Rostam, shortly after departure.
Persepolis (Takht-e Jamshid)
Clear aerial views of the world-famous Achaemenid capital ruins roughly 10 minutes after takeoff.
Naqsh-e Rostam
The ancient royal necropolis with cross-shaped tombs carved into the mountain cliffs north of Persepolis.
Shiraz Cityscape
A panoramic view of the sprawling 'City of Gardens' and the Tomb of Hafez during the initial ascent.
Zagros Ridge Folds
Spectacular views of the 'creased' mountain formations that characterize the Iranian plateau's geology.
Zayandeh River Valley
The green oasis belt of the Zayandeh River cutting through the arid landscape as the flight approaches Esfahan.
Select a window seat on the left and stay alert about 5 to 12 minutes after departure. This is when the plane crosses the Marvdasht plain, offering a perfect view of Persepolis. Morning flights are ideal as the eastern sun illuminates the archaeological sites and mountain faces perfectly.
Maharloo Lake
A seasonal salt lake often appearing bright pink due to algae, visible just south of Shiraz airport.
Lake Bakhtegan
Large salt flats and the shimmering white beds of one of Iran's largest seasonal salt lakes to the east.
Abarkuh Plateau
The transition into the high central desert, showing the vast and desolate beauty of the Iranian interior.
Bamu National Park
The rugged, protected mountain range located directly north and east of the Shiraz metropolitan area.
The right side is best for seeing the pink waters of Maharloo Lake immediately after takeoff, especially if the aircraft departs toward the south before banking north. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for viewing the desert expanses and salt lakes on this side.
Distance: 364 km (226 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 36 min
Departure: SYZ (29.53919982910156, 52.58980178833008)
Arrival: IFN (32.75080108642578, 51.86130142211914)
Route Type: Domestic
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