While takeoff scenery favors the right side with Istanbul and the Marmara islands, the left side benefits from both a glimpse of Anatolia's Taurus foothills during cruise and the standout Gulf-and-skyline approach into Abu Dhabi, giving it the edge over the full flight.
Flown IST to AUH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Istanbul to Abu Dhabi is 1,889 miles (3,040 km), a flight of about 4 hours 25 minutes.
Central Anatolian plateau, the northern edge of the Syrian Desert, and the vast sand expanses of the Arabian Peninsula's Nafud/Rub' al Khali fringe before the Persian Gulf coastline near Abu Dhabi.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from IST
RIGHTDeparting IST to the southeast, the initial climb and turn put Istanbul's skyline, the Sea of Marmara, and the Princes' Islands on the right side of the aircraft before the route settles onto its southeast heading.
Landing at AUH
LEFTThe approach into AUH typically comes in from the northwest over the Persian Gulf, putting Abu Dhabi's coastal skyline, Yas Island, and the turquoise shallow waters on the left side as the aircraft descends toward the southeast-aligned runways.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from İstanbul Airport (IST) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Istanbul to Abu Dhabi. While takeoff scenery favors the right side with Istanbul and the Marmara islands, the left side benefits from both a glimpse of Anatolia's Taurus foothills during cruise and the standout Gulf-and-skyline approach into Abu Dhabi, giving it the edge over the full flight.
What can I see during takeoff from İstanbul Airport in Istanbul?
During takeoff from İstanbul Airport (IST), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing IST to the southeast, the initial climb and turn put Istanbul's skyline, the Sea of Marmara, and the Princes' Islands on the right side of the aircraft before the route settles onto its southeast heading. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Princes' Islands (Büyükada), Istanbul historic peninsula skyline.
What can I see when landing at Abu Dhabi International in Abu Dhabi?
When landing at Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Left side for the best views. The approach into AUH typically comes in from the northwest over the Persian Gulf, putting Abu Dhabi's coastal skyline, Yas Island, and the turquoise shallow waters on the left side as the aircraft descends toward the southeast-aligned runways. Notable sights include: Persian Gulf turquoise shallows, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Corniche skyline, Saadiyat Island.
How long is the flight from Istanbul to Abu Dhabi?
The flight from İstanbul Airport (IST) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH) takes about 4 hours 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,889 miles (3,040 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Istanbul to Abu Dhabi flight path pass over?
Central Anatolian plateau, the northern edge of the Syrian Desert, and the vast sand expanses of the Arabian Peninsula's Nafud/Rub' al Khali fringe before the Persian Gulf coastline near Abu Dhabi.