The right side captures the most dramatic scenery: the Taurus Mountains during takeoff are visually striking, and the right wing remains favorable during much of the northwestward flight path across central Anatolia before the final approach.
Flown COV to SAW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Tarsus to Pendik, Istanbul is 415 miles (668 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
During the cruise phase, the flight passes over the Anatolian plateau and approaches the Marmara region. Notable features include the Sakarya River valley (visible from altitude as a linear depression), the transition from agricultural lands to increasingly urbanized areas as the aircraft approaches Istanbul, and the gradual emergence of the Sea of Marmara on the left side during descent. The Bosphorus becomes visible in the final descent phase.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from COV
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Taurus Mountains (Toros Dağları) immediately north of Tarsus during climb-out. The aircraft departs northwestward, so the right wing captures the dramatic ridge line and foothills that define the landscape around Çukurova.
Landing at SAW
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Sea of Marmara and the Asian shoreline of Istanbul during descent into Sabiha Gökçen. The approach from the south brings the water body and coastal features directly into view on the left wing.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Çukurova International Airport (COV) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Tarsus to Pendik, Istanbul. The right side captures the most dramatic scenery: the Taurus Mountains during takeoff are visually striking, and the right wing remains favorable during much of the northwestward flight path across central Anatolia before the final approach.
What can I see during takeoff from Çukurova International Airport in Tarsus?
During takeoff from Çukurova International Airport (COV), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Taurus Mountains (Toros Dağları) immediately north of Tarsus during climb-out. The aircraft departs northwestward, so the right wing captures the dramatic ridge line and foothills that define the landscape around Çukurova. Notable sights include: Taurus Mountains (Toros Dağları), Ceyhan River valley, Adana plain to the south, Mediterranean coastline (distant).
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 Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Sea of Marmara and the Asian shoreline of Istanbul during descent into Sabiha Gökçen. The approach from the south brings the water body and coastal features directly into view on the left wing. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Pendik waterfront and harbor, Bosphorus strait (northern distance), Asian Istanbul urban sprawl.
How long is the flight from Tarsus to Pendik, Istanbul?
The flight from Çukurova International Airport (COV) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 415 miles (668 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Tarsus to Pendik, Istanbul flight path pass over?
During the cruise phase, the flight passes over the Anatolian plateau and approaches the Marmara region. Notable features include the Sakarya River valley (visible from altitude as a linear depression), the transition from agricultural lands to increasingly urbanized areas as the aircraft approaches Istanbul, and the gradual emergence of the Sea of Marmara on the left side during descent. The Bosphorus becomes visible in the final descent phase.