While the takeoff favors the left with Edinburgh's estuary views, the right side wins overall thanks to the Carpathian and Balkan mountain glimpses during cruise and the dramatic Bosphorus/Marmara approach into Istanbul.
Flown EDI to IST? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Edinburgh to Istanbul is 1,758 miles (2,829 km), a flight of about 3 hours 55 minutes.
Route crosses the North Sea, Netherlands/Germany lowlands, the Carpathian foothills over Central Europe, and the Balkan mountain ranges of Bulgaria before reaching the Sea of Marmara and Istanbul.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from EDI
LEFTDeparting runway 24 to the southwest, the initial left turn toward Europe puts Edinburgh's skyline, Arthur's Seat, and the Firth of Forth estuary on the left side of the aircraft as it climbs out.
Landing at IST
RIGHTOn approach into Istanbul Airport, arrivals from the south typically bank over the Sea of Marmara and pass near the Bosphorus mouth, giving right-side passengers a view of the strait, the historic peninsula, and the sprawling city before landing on the north-south runways.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Edinburgh (EDI) to İstanbul Airport (IST)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Edinburgh to Istanbul. While the takeoff favors the left with Edinburgh's estuary views, the right side wins overall thanks to the Carpathian and Balkan mountain glimpses during cruise and the dramatic Bosphorus/Marmara approach into Istanbul.
What can I see during takeoff from Edinburgh in Edinburgh?
During takeoff from Edinburgh (EDI), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing runway 24 to the southwest, the initial left turn toward Europe puts Edinburgh's skyline, Arthur's Seat, and the Firth of Forth estuary on the left side of the aircraft as it climbs out. Notable sights include: Firth of Forth, Edinburgh Castle area/city center, Arthur's Seat, Pentland Hills.
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 Istanbul Airport, arrivals from the south typically bank over the Sea of Marmara and pass near the Bosphorus mouth, giving right-side passengers a view of the strait, the historic peninsula, and the sprawling city before landing on the north-south runways. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus Strait mouth, Istanbul historic peninsula skyline, Black Sea coastline.
How long is the flight from Edinburgh to Istanbul?
The flight from Edinburgh (EDI) to İstanbul Airport (IST) takes about 3 hours 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,758 miles (2,829 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Edinburgh to Istanbul flight path pass over?
Route crosses the North Sea, Netherlands/Germany lowlands, the Carpathian foothills over Central Europe, and the Balkan mountain ranges of Bulgaria before reaching the Sea of Marmara and Istanbul.