Right side scores higher due to superior scenery on both takeoff and landing. Takeoff offers the dramatic Taurus Mountains and Mediterranean coastline; landing provides the Marmara Sea, Princes' Islands, and Istanbul's sprawling urban landscape. Left side (northbound) offers only flat Anatolian plains and suburban development with minimal terrain variation.
Flown AYT to SAW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Antalya to Pendik, Istanbul is 288 miles (463 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Flat to gently rolling Anatolian plateau between the Taurus Mountains and the Marmara region; the Sakarya River valley visible from altitude; transition from Mediterranean climate zone to temperate Marmara basin; scattered towns and agricultural fields across central Anatolia
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from AYT
RIGHTRight side captures Antalya's dramatic Mediterranean coastline and the Taurus Mountains rising immediately inland. The city harbor and beach development are visible during climb-out, with snow-capped peaks visible to the north on clear days.
Landing at SAW
RIGHTRight side offers the best approach scenery: the Marmara Sea with its islands, the Bosphorus strait, and Istanbul's urban sprawl. The descent provides views of the Sea of Marmara's eastern basin and the city's position between continents.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Antalya (AYT) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Antalya to Pendik, Istanbul. Right side scores higher due to superior scenery on both takeoff and landing. Takeoff offers the dramatic Taurus Mountains and Mediterranean coastline; landing provides the Marmara Sea, Princes' Islands, and Istanbul's sprawling urban landscape. Left side (northbound) offers only flat Anatolian plains and suburban development with minimal terrain variation.
What can I see during takeoff from Antalya in Antalya?
During takeoff from Antalya (AYT), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures Antalya's dramatic Mediterranean coastline and the Taurus Mountains rising immediately inland. The city harbor and beach development are visible during climb-out, with snow-capped peaks visible to the north on clear days. Notable sights include: Antalya harbor and Old Town waterfront, Taurus Mountains (Köprülü Canyon region to the northeast), Mediterranean Sea coastline extending east toward Alanya.
What can I see when landing at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Pendik, Istanbul?
When landing at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers the best approach scenery: the Marmara Sea with its islands, the Bosphorus strait, and Istanbul's urban sprawl. The descent provides views of the Sea of Marmara's eastern basin and the city's position between continents. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara with Princes' Islands (Kınalıada, Burgazada visible as small landmasses), Bosphorus strait entrance, Istanbul's Asian-side urban development and Pendik district.
How long is the flight from Antalya to Pendik, Istanbul?
The flight from Antalya (AYT) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 288 miles (463 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Antalya to Pendik, Istanbul flight path pass over?
Flat to gently rolling Anatolian plateau between the Taurus Mountains and the Marmara region; the Sakarya River valley visible from altitude; transition from Mediterranean climate zone to temperate Marmara basin; scattered towns and agricultural fields across central Anatolia