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TBS → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Tbilisi International Airport (Tbilisi) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior panoramic view of the vast Black Sea coastline and the distant snow-capped peaks of the Greater Caucasus Mountains early in the flight, followed by a dramatic approach into Istanbul.
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Greater Caucasus Range
On clear days, see the massive, snow-covered peaks of the northern Caucasus range stretching along the horizon.
Poti and Kolkheti Park
The marshy wetlands and major port city of Georgia where the Rioni River meets the Black Sea.
Black Sea Horizon
Infinite blue views and the shipping lanes connecting the Caucasus to Eastern Europe.
Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge
The third and northernmost Bosphorus bridge, a massive engineering feat connecting Europe and Asia.
IST Coastal Approach
Istanbul Airport is located on the Black Sea coast, providing a scenic final descent over the northern forests and beaches.
The right side is perfect for afternoon flights to avoid the glare of the southern sun. It offers the most consistent views of the water. During the final descent into IST, this side typically provides the best view of the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge if the plane approaches from the east.
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Trialeti Range
Aerial views of the rugged mountain ridges and deep valleys south of the Mtkvari River shortly after takeoff.
Pontic Mountains
The lush, green Kaçkar Mountains of northeastern Turkey, known for high rainfall and dense forests.
Trabzon and Samsun
Major Turkish coastal cities where the urban sprawl meets the steep foothills of the Anatolian plateau.
Sinop Peninsula
The distinctive northward-pointing tip of Turkey's Black Sea coast, creating a natural harbor.
Southern Bosphorus
On specific landing patterns, views of the historic center of Istanbul and the entrance to the Marmara Sea.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is better for observing the interior terrain of Turkey and the Lesser Caucasus. Watch for the dramatic transition from the Georgian plains to the Turkish highlands.
Get eSIMs for Georgia
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 1,349 km (838 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 48 min
Departure: TBS (41.6692008972, 44.95470047)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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