About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ataturk (IST) to Mohammed V (CMN)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Istanbul to Casablanca. The left side delivers the most dramatic single moment of the flight — the sweeping view of Istanbul, the Bosphorus, and the Sea of Marmara on departure, which is genuinely one of the great urban aerial views in the world. The landing view on the right is interesting but relatively flat and unremarkable by comparison. Left wins overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Ataturk in Istanbul?
During takeoff from Ataturk (IST), sit on the Left side for the best views. Istanbul Ataturk typically departs westbound on runway 06/24 or 18/36. A westbound departure on runway 24 puts the left side facing south over the Marmara Sea and the Istanbul peninsula. You get a clear view of the historic peninsula with Sultanahmet, the Bosphorus strait, and the Asian shore of Istanbul spread out below. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus strait, Istanbul historic peninsula (Sultanahmet/Topkapi area), Prince's Islands (Adalar) in the Marmara.
What can I see when landing at Mohammed V in Casablanca?
When landing at Mohammed V (CMN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Mohammed V Airport sits southeast of Casablanca and typically lands from the northeast on runway 35L/35R, meaning the aircraft approaches from the south-southeast heading north. The right side faces east toward the Atlantic coastal plain and the city of Casablanca itself, giving a clear view of the urban layout and the coastline. Notable sights include: Casablanca urban sprawl, Atlantic Ocean coastline north of the city, Hassan II Mosque visible on the waterfront, flat Chaouia agricultural plain to the east.
How long is the flight from Istanbul to Casablanca?
The flight from Ataturk (IST) to Mohammed V (CMN) takes Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Istanbul to Casablanca flight path pass over?
The route crosses the Greek islands and Aegean Sea shortly after departure, then tracks over the central Mediterranean south of Sicily and Sardinia, crosses the Strait of Sicily, then flies over northern Algeria and the Atlas Mountains of northern Algeria before descending toward Morocco. The High Atlas range of Morocco may be visible to the south on approach. The Mediterranean crossing offers open water views for a significant portion of the mid-flight segment.