Right side seats offer the superior experience: dramatic Phang Nga Bay karsts during departure are more visually striking than the Bosphorus approach, and right-side views during the long westbound cruise over the Arabian Sea and Middle East provide occasional glimpses of coastlines and mountain ranges (Oman, Iran, Iraq highlands) that left side misses.
Flown HKT to SAW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Phuket to Pendik, Istanbul is 4,759 miles (7,658 km), a flight of about 7 hours 35 minutes.
Arabian Sea, Strait of Hormuz (narrow passage between Oman and Iran), Persian Gulf coastlines, Zagros Mountains (Iran-Iraq border region appearing as distant ridges), Mesopotamian plains, Taurus Mountains (southern Turkey), Cilician coast
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from HKT
RIGHTRight side seats offer views of Phang Nga Bay's limestone karsts and the Andaman Sea immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northwest, and right-side windows capture the dramatic geology of the bay and coastal islands before the flight turns westward across open ocean.
Landing at SAW
LEFTLeft side seats provide views of the Bosphorus Strait and European Istanbul during descent into Sabiha Gökçen. The aircraft approaches from the southwest, and left windows capture the narrow waterway separating Europe and Asia, plus the city's distinctive urban sprawl across both continents.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phuket International (HKT) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phuket to Pendik, Istanbul. Right side seats offer the superior experience: dramatic Phang Nga Bay karsts during departure are more visually striking than the Bosphorus approach, and right-side views during the long westbound cruise over the Arabian Sea and Middle East provide occasional glimpses of coastlines and mountain ranges (Oman, Iran, Iraq highlands) that left side misses.
What can I see during takeoff from Phuket International in Phuket?
During takeoff from Phuket International (HKT), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side seats offer views of Phang Nga Bay's limestone karsts and the Andaman Sea immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northwest, and right-side windows capture the dramatic geology of the bay and coastal islands before the flight turns westward across open ocean. Notable sights include: Phang Nga Bay limestone formations, Andaman Sea, Phuket Island, James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan).
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 Bosphorus Strait and European Istanbul during descent into Sabiha Gökçen. The aircraft approaches from the southwest, and left windows capture the narrow waterway separating Europe and Asia, plus the city's distinctive urban sprawl across both continents. Notable sights include: Bosphorus Strait, Sea of Marmara, European Istanbul skyline, Asian Istanbul (Anatolia).
How long is the flight from Phuket to Pendik, Istanbul?
The flight from Phuket International (HKT) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) takes about 7 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,759 miles (7,658 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Phuket to Pendik, Istanbul flight path pass over?
Arabian Sea, Strait of Hormuz (narrow passage between Oman and Iran), Persian Gulf coastlines, Zagros Mountains (Iran-Iraq border region appearing as distant ridges), Mesopotamian plains, Taurus Mountains (southern Turkey), Cilician coast