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YYZ â IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Toronto) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side (Port) is highly recommended for this Transatlantic journey. It faces north, offering the best chance to see the dramatic Greenland ice cap and the rugged topography of the North Atlantic islands without the direct glare of the sun during the day.
St. Lawrence Estuary
Watch the transition from the urban landscape of Ontario to the wild, widening waters of the St. Lawrence River in Quebec.
Greenland Ice Cap
The highlight of the flight; spectacular views of massive glaciers, deep fjords, and floating icebergs at the southern tip of Greenland.
Icelandic Coastline
Depending on the jet stream, you may pass close to Iceland, offering glimpses of volcanic terrain and dramatic cliffs.
Scottish Highlands
Aerial views of the misty lochs and rugged green peaks as the flight makes its first European landfall over Northern Scotland.
Balkan Mountains
Rugged, snow-dusted ridges of the Carpathian and Balkan ranges as you descend toward the Turkish border.
The Greenland crossing typically occurs 3 to 4 hours into the flight; set an alarm so you don't sleep through it. On night flights, the left side is the place to be for potential sightings of the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) over the North Atlantic.
Toronto Skyline
Excellent views of the CN Tower and the Lake Ontario shoreline immediately after takeoff if departing to the east.
Atlantic Sunrise
As an eastbound flight, the right side experiences a fast-paced and vibrant sunrise over the open ocean.
The Alps
While often distant to the south, the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss and Austrian Alps can sometimes be spotted on a clear day.
The Danube River
Look for the silver ribbon of Europe's second-longest river winding through the plains of Central Europe.
Black Sea Coast
During the final approach into Istanbul, the right side often provides a stunning view of the Turkish coastline meeting the Black Sea.
Be prepared for intense sunlight during the morning hours as you approach Europe; keep your window shade partially closed to manage heat and glare. This side is best for those who enjoy watching the sunrise and the final descent into the Black Sea region.
Distance: 8,172 km (5,078 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 37 min
Departure: YYZ (43.6772003174, -79.63059997559999)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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