Loading map...

TAS destination photo
IST destination photo

TAS β†’ IST

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior panoramic view of the majestic Great Caucasus Mountains and the unique, changing landscape of the Aral Sea basin.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Aral Sea Basin

The hauntingly beautiful salt flats and remaining water bodies of the shrinking Aral Sea to the north.

πŸ’§

Caspian Sea Crossing

A vast expanse of turquoise water followed by the oil rigs near the Absheron Peninsula.

πŸ”οΈ

Great Caucasus Range

Spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, including Mount Elbrus, the highest point in Europe.

🚒

Black Sea Horizon

Deep blue waters with shipping lanes leading toward the entrance of the Bosphorus.

✈️

New Istanbul Airport

A grand perspective of the massive terminal architecture and the Black Sea coast upon arrival.

The right side is the clear winner for mountain lovers. For the best experience, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the Caucasus peaks perfectly. Ensure you are seated ahead of or well behind the wing (Seats F or K) to capture the scale of the Aral Sea's landscape transformation.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
πŸ™οΈ

Tashkent Panorama

Aerial views of Uzbekistan's capital and the lush Chirchiq River valley immediately after takeoff.

🏜️

Kyzylkum Desert

Expansive views of the red sand desert and the agricultural patterns along the Amu Darya river.

πŸ”οΈ

Lesser Caucasus

Rugged, green mountain ranges extending through Armenia and southern Georgia.

πŸ–οΈ

Pontic Mountains

The dramatic meeting of the Turkish coastline and the high peaks of the KaΓ§kar range.

πŸŒ‰

Bosphorus Strait

Depending on the landing pattern, a glimpse of the bridges connecting Asia and Europe.

Sit on the left for better views of the Turkish coastline as you approach Istanbul. However, during afternoon flights, this side will face the sun, which can cause significant glare and heat. Choose an A or B seat to avoid the wing and maximize the downward view of the Anatolian plateau.

Top Activities in Istanbul
Route Information

Distance: 3,356 km (2,085 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 57 min

Departure: TAS (41.257900238000005, 69.2811965942)

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.