The left side wins decisively because the great-circle route crosses the southern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, the Pamir and Tian Shan mountain systems, and the Caspian Sea basin, all of which sit south of the flight path and are visible on the left during a westbound heading, complemented by scenic departure and arrival views.
Flown HAN to IST? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Hanoi to Istanbul is 4,609 miles (7,417 km), a flight of about 10 hours 30 minutes.
Southeastern Tibetan Plateau foothills, Pamir Mountains, Tian Shan range, Central Asian steppe of Kazakhstan, and the Caspian Sea coastline
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpg?width=600)
_in_Istanbul.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from HAN
LEFTDeparting Hanoi and turning northwest toward China, the Hoang Lien Son range including Fansipan (Vietnam's highest peak) rises to the west and comes into view on the left as the aircraft climbs and banks north. The Red River Delta's patchwork of rice paddies is also visible below on this side.
Landing at IST
LEFTOn approach to Istanbul Airport from the east, the descent path typically swings south of the city before turning onto final, giving left-side passengers a view of the Bosphorus strait, the Sea of Marmara, and Istanbul's dense skyline with its minarets and bridges.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Noibai International (HAN) to İstanbul Airport (IST)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Hanoi to Istanbul. The left side wins decisively because the great-circle route crosses the southern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, the Pamir and Tian Shan mountain systems, and the Caspian Sea basin, all of which sit south of the flight path and are visible on the left during a westbound heading, complemented by scenic departure and arrival views.
What can I see during takeoff from Noibai International in Hanoi?
During takeoff from Noibai International (HAN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing Hanoi and turning northwest toward China, the Hoang Lien Son range including Fansipan (Vietnam's highest peak) rises to the west and comes into view on the left as the aircraft climbs and banks north. The Red River Delta's patchwork of rice paddies is also visible below on this side. Notable sights include: Hoang Lien Son mountains, Fansipan peak, Red River Delta.
What can I see when landing at İstanbul Airport in Istanbul?
When landing at İstanbul Airport (IST), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach to Istanbul Airport from the east, the descent path typically swings south of the city before turning onto final, giving left-side passengers a view of the Bosphorus strait, the Sea of Marmara, and Istanbul's dense skyline with its minarets and bridges. Notable sights include: Bosphorus strait, Sea of Marmara, Istanbul city skyline, Bosphorus bridges.
How long is the flight from Hanoi to Istanbul?
The flight from Noibai International (HAN) to İstanbul Airport (IST) takes about 10 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,609 miles (7,417 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Hanoi to Istanbul flight path pass over?
Southeastern Tibetan Plateau foothills, Pamir Mountains, Tian Shan range, Central Asian steppe of Kazakhstan, and the Caspian Sea coastline