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TLV → SAW
Which side of the plane to sit from Ben Gurion International Airport (Tel-aviv) to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Israeli coastline immediately after takeoff, followed by the majestic snow-capped Taurus Mountains and the scenic approach over the Princes' Islands toward Sabiha Gökçen.
Tel Aviv Coastline
Stunning aerial perspectives of the Tel Aviv-Yafo beachfront and urban sprawl shortly after departure from Ben Gurion.
Taurus Mountains
Dramatic views of the rugged, often snow-dusted peaks of the Taurus range as the flight crosses into mainland Turkey.
Lake Eğirdir
The vibrant blue and green hues of Turkey's freshwater lakes in the Isparta region are visible during the descent phase.
Princes' Islands
A collection of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara, providing a picturesque landmark just before landing.
Istanbul Asian Side
Panoramic views of the densely populated residential and commercial districts of Pendik and Kartal on the final approach.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. Keep your camera ready during the first 10 minutes for the Israeli coast and the last 20 minutes for the Turkish landscape. In winter, the Taurus Mountains are particularly photogenic.
Mediterranean Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Mediterranean Sea for the majority of the cruise phase.
Cyprus Silhouette
Clear views of the western tip of Cyprus and the Akamas Peninsula during the mid-flight transition.
Antalya Gulf
A distant look at the turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera as the flight makes landfall near the southern coast.
Marmara Sea Vessels
Observation of the heavy maritime traffic and cargo ships waiting to enter the Bosphorus Strait during descent.
Choose the left side for evening flights to witness spectacular sunsets over the Mediterranean. While mostly water-based, the approach into SAW from the west can occasionally provide distant glimpses of the European side of Istanbul.
Distance: 1,106 km (687 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min
Departure: TLV (32.011398315429695, 34.88669967651367)
Arrival: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Route Type: International
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