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URC → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (Urumqi) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic and consistent mountain scenery, including the Tian Shan range immediately after takeoff and the rugged Anatolian plateau upon entering Turkey.
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Tian Shan Mountains
Spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers south of the flight path right after takeoff from Urumqi.
Kyzylkum Desert
The striking red and orange sand dunes of the Central Asian desert landscapes.
Southern Caspian Sea
Aerial perspective of the vast, deep blue waters of the world's largest inland body of water.
Anatolian Highlands
The rugged, high-altitude terrain and volcanic landscapes of Eastern and Central Turkey.
Historic Istanbul
Potential views of the Marmara Sea and the historic peninsula including the Blue Mosque during descent.
The left side is unbeatable for the initial 45 minutes of the flight to see the high peaks of Xinjiang. For photography, aim for an afternoon flight so the sun is behind the aircraft rather than shining directly into your window from the south. This side also offers a better view of the Istanbul city center if the wind dictates a landing from the south.
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Lake Balkhash
A massive, crescent-shaped lake in Kazakhstan known for its unique turquoise and green hues.
Kazakh Steppe
Endless horizons of the world's largest dry steppe region stretching toward the northern horizon.
Caucasus Mountains
Distances views of Mount Elbrus and the jagged peaks of the Greater Caucasus range.
Black Sea Coast
The lush, green coastline of northern Turkey where the mountains meet the dark sea.
Bosphorus Strait
Clear views of the waterway dividing Europe and Asia and the heavy maritime traffic during arrival.
Choose the right side if you want to see the Caucasus Mountains; on a clear day, the peaks are breathtaking even from a distance. The right side is also the 'shady' side for the majority of this westward daytime flight, meaning less glare on your window and more comfortable viewing temperatures.
Book Hotels in IstanbulDistance: 4,713 km (2,929 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 33 min
Departure: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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