Loading map...
SYZ → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Shiraz Shahid Dastghaib International Airport (Shiraz) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the high Zagros peaks, the massive expanse of Lake Van, and potentially the Bosphorus and Black Sea during the approach into Istanbul.
Search flights from SYZ to IST
High Zagros Peaks
Snow-capped summits and deep gorges immediately visible after departing Shiraz.
Lake Van
A stunning, massive soda lake in Eastern Turkey known for its brilliant turquoise color.
Mount Erciyes
A towering dormant volcano that dominates the landscape of the Central Anatolian plateau.
The Bosphorus
The geographic divide between Europe and Asia, often visible if the plane circles for landing.
Pontic Mountains
Lush green mountain ridges visible to the north as you cross toward the Black Sea coast.
The right side is the clear winner for geographic landmarks like Lake Van. Try to fly during the day to appreciate the stark contrast between the desert mountains of Iran and the greener Turkish landscape. If the flight arrives from the north, you may even catch a glimpse of the Black Sea.
Book Hotels in Istanbul
Western Zagros Range
Dramatic sedimentary rock formations and valleys as you fly over the Iranian-Iraqi border region.
Anatolian Plains
The golden-hued agricultural heartland of central Turkey stretching toward the horizon.
Sea of Marmara
Deep blue waters dotted with cargo ships waiting to enter the Bosphorus during the final descent.
Istanbul Cityscape
A dense urban sprawl showing the massive scale of Europe's largest city as you approach IST.
Sit on the left for a better chance of seeing the historic peninsula and the Blue Mosque if the flight approaches IST from the south. Morning flights offer softer light for photography of the Zagros foothills.
Get eSIMs for Iran
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 2,511 km (1,560 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 21 min
Departure: SYZ (29.53919982910156, 52.58980178833008)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.