While takeoff offers Alpine scenery on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and sustained views of the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus strait, and Istanbul's geography. The landing sequence is visually more rewarding for a full-flight experience.
Flown GRZ to SAW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Graz to Pendik, Istanbul is 807 miles (1,298 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Carpathian foothills and Transylvanian plateau (Romania), then descends across the Danube plain toward Bulgaria. The Danube River itself may be visible in clear conditions as the aircraft crosses into Bulgarian airspace. The Balkan Mountains form a distant ridge to the south. The final approach crosses the northern Aegean region before reaching the Sea of Marmara.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from GRZ
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Alps as the aircraft climbs southeastward from Graz. The Styrian Alps dominate the southern horizon during initial climb, with the Mur River valley visible below in the foreground.
Landing at SAW
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen. The Sea of Marmara dominates the approach, with the Asian shoreline and Pendik peninsula clearly visible. The Bosphorus strait and European side of Istanbul are visible to the left across the water.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Graz Mil/civ (GRZ) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Graz to Pendik, Istanbul. While takeoff offers Alpine scenery on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and sustained views of the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus strait, and Istanbul's geography. The landing sequence is visually more rewarding for a full-flight experience.
What can I see during takeoff from Graz Mil/civ in Graz?
During takeoff from Graz Mil/civ (GRZ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Alps as the aircraft climbs southeastward from Graz. The Styrian Alps dominate the southern horizon during initial climb, with the Mur River valley visible below in the foreground. Notable sights include: Styrian Alps (south), Mur River valley (below), Graz city sprawl (north), foothills of Eastern Alps (southeast).
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 excellent views during descent into Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen. The Sea of Marmara dominates the approach, with the Asian shoreline and Pendik peninsula clearly visible. The Bosphorus strait and European side of Istanbul are visible to the left across the water. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara (below and ahead), Pendik peninsula (right), Bosphorus strait (left/northwest), Asian Istanbul shoreline (left).
How long is the flight from Graz to Pendik, Istanbul?
The flight from Graz Mil/civ (GRZ) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 807 miles (1,298 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Graz to Pendik, Istanbul flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Carpathian foothills and Transylvanian plateau (Romania), then descends across the Danube plain toward Bulgaria. The Danube River itself may be visible in clear conditions as the aircraft crosses into Bulgarian airspace. The Balkan Mountains form a distant ridge to the south. The final approach crosses the northern Aegean region before reaching the Sea of Marmara.