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TZX → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Trabzon International Airport (Trabzon) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the dramatic Pontic Mountains and the lush, green landscapes of the Black Sea region, concluding with an expansive view of Istanbul's eastern urban sprawl.
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Pontic Mountains
Continuous views of the rugged, often snow-capped Kaçkar and Canik mountain ranges stretching parallel to the coast.
Coastal Urban Centers
Bird's-eye views of the cities of Giresun, Ordu, and the sprawling port city of Samsun.
Bolu Forest Massifs
Dense, high-altitude coniferous forests and mountain lakes as you approach the Marmara region.
Kızılırmak Delta
The intricate waterways and fertile plains of Turkey's longest river as it meets the sea.
Istanbul Hinterland
The rapid transition from rural greenery to the dense metropolitan development of the Kocaeli peninsula.
Sit on the left for morning flights to see the sunlight hitting the northern slopes of the mountains. This side is also better for spotting the inland lakes and the winding paths of the Anatolian plateau. Use a window seat forward or aft of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the mountain ridges.
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Black Sea Horizon
Unobstructed views of the deep blue expanse and the unique curve of the northern Turkish coastline.
Sinop Peninsula
The distinct geographical 'nose' of Turkey, marking the northernmost point of the country.
Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge
The third Bosphorus bridge is often visible as the flight prepares for its northern approach into IST.
Kilyos Coastline
Beautiful views of the sandy beaches and rocky cliffs on the Black Sea coast of the European side.
IST Air Traffic Tower
Great views of the iconic tulip-shaped control tower and the massive terminal during the final taxi.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. It provides the best perspective of the Black Sea's scale and the specific geography of the Sinop cape. On approach to Istanbul Airport (IST), this side often provides a clearer view of the Black Sea coastline and the new airport's massive infrastructure.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 924 km (574 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: TZX (40.99509811401367, 39.78969955444336)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: Domestic
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