The left side wins overall thanks to the dramatic Aegean coastline and island views during departure, which add more variety and drama than the comparatively short, urban-only highlight on the right during landing.
Flown BJV to IST? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Bodrum to Istanbul is 284 miles (457 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Western Anatolian coastal hills, Balıkesir plains, and the approach toward the Sea of Marmara
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from BJV
LEFTDeparting BJV to the west over the Gulf of Gökova, the left side offers a sweeping view of the indented Bodrum peninsula coastline and the Aegean islands of Kos and the Greek Dodecanese chain as the aircraft climbs and banks north. The turquoise bays and rocky headlands make for a striking start to the flight.
Landing at IST
RIGHTOn approach into IST from the south over the Sea of Marmara, the right side reveals the descent path passing near the Istanbul skyline, the mouth of the Bosphorus, and the dense urban sprawl of the European side before touchdown on the north-south runways. It's a strong, recognizable city view compared to the flatter countryside on the left.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Milas Bodrum International Airport (BJV) to İstanbul Airport (IST)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Bodrum to Istanbul. The left side wins overall thanks to the dramatic Aegean coastline and island views during departure, which add more variety and drama than the comparatively short, urban-only highlight on the right during landing.
What can I see during takeoff from Milas Bodrum International Airport in Bodrum?
During takeoff from Milas Bodrum International Airport (BJV), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing BJV to the west over the Gulf of Gökova, the left side offers a sweeping view of the indented Bodrum peninsula coastline and the Aegean islands of Kos and the Greek Dodecanese chain as the aircraft climbs and banks north. The turquoise bays and rocky headlands make for a striking start to the flight. Notable sights include: Gulf of Gökova, Bodrum peninsula coastline, Kos island, Aegean Sea inlets.
What can I see when landing at İstanbul Airport in Istanbul?
When landing at İstanbul Airport (IST), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into IST from the south over the Sea of Marmara, the right side reveals the descent path passing near the Istanbul skyline, the mouth of the Bosphorus, and the dense urban sprawl of the European side before touchdown on the north-south runways. It's a strong, recognizable city view compared to the flatter countryside on the left. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara coastline, Istanbul skyline, Bosphorus strait mouth, Büyükçekmece Lake.
How long is the flight from Bodrum to Istanbul?
The flight from Milas Bodrum International Airport (BJV) to İstanbul Airport (IST) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 284 miles (457 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Bodrum to Istanbul flight path pass over?
Western Anatolian coastal hills, Balıkesir plains, and the approach toward the Sea of Marmara