The takeoff climb over the Tian Shan range from Manas provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery than the landing approach over the Ankara plateau. The snow-capped peaks and steep mountain relief are far more striking than the relatively flat steppe terrain of central Anatolia.
Flight Path
Kyrgyzstan-Kazakhstan border region with continued Tian Shan foothills; transition from mountainous terrain to the Ustyurt Plateau; Lake Balkhash visible on clear days to the north; Kyzylkum Desert to the south; Aral Sea region (diminished) to the northwest; gradual descent over the Mangystau Region; entry into Turkish airspace over the Caspian depression; final approach over the Anatolian plateau
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from BSZ
LEFTLeft side offers immediate views of the Tian Shan mountain range as the aircraft climbs northwestward from Manas. The peaks are dramatic and clearly visible during the initial climb phase.
Landing at ESB
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Ankara plateau and the approach path over central Anatolia. As the aircraft descends toward Esenboga, the right wing shows the city of Ankara and the surrounding steppe landscape with good visibility of urban development.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Manas International Airport (BSZ) to Esenboga (ESB)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Bishkek to Ankara. The takeoff climb over the Tian Shan range from Manas provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery than the landing approach over the Ankara plateau. The snow-capped peaks and steep mountain relief are far more striking than the relatively flat steppe terrain of central Anatolia.
What can I see during takeoff from Manas International Airport in Bishkek?
During takeoff from Manas International Airport (BSZ), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers immediate views of the Tian Shan mountain range as the aircraft climbs northwestward from Manas. The peaks are dramatic and clearly visible during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Tian Shan Mountains (snow-capped peaks to the north and west), Chui River valley (visible below during climb), Bishkek city grid (receding to the south), Lake Issyk-Kul (visible in distance to the southeast on clear days).
What can I see when landing at Esenboga in Ankara?
When landing at Esenboga (ESB), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Ankara plateau and the approach path over central Anatolia. As the aircraft descends toward Esenboga, the right wing shows the city of Ankara and the surrounding steppe landscape with good visibility of urban development. Notable sights include: Ankara city center and urban sprawl (visible from 15,000+ feet), Ankara plateau terrain (rolling steppe), Kızılırmak River valley (visible in approach corridor), Esenboga Airport surroundings (flat terrain with scattered settlements).
How long is the flight from Bishkek to Ankara?
The flight from Manas International Airport (BSZ) to Esenboga (ESB) takes 3h 45m.
What does the Bishkek to Ankara flight path pass over?
Kyrgyzstan-Kazakhstan border region with continued Tian Shan foothills; transition from mountainous terrain to the Ustyurt Plateau; Lake Balkhash visible on clear days to the north; Kyzylkum Desert to the south; Aral Sea region (diminished) to the northwest; gradual descent over the Mangystau Region; entry into Turkish airspace over the Caspian depression; final approach over the Anatolian plateau