Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Istanbul to New York. Left side wins at both ends of the flight. Over the Atlantic crossing the views are largely ocean regardless of side, but the left seat delivers Istanbul's iconic skyline and Marmara on departure, and Jamaica Bay plus the distant Manhattan skyline on approach — both are the more visually rewarding perspectives.

During takeoff from Ataturk (IST), sit on the Left side for the best views. IST typically departs westbound on runway 35L/17R or uses runways oriented roughly north-south. Departing westward over the Sea of Marmara, the left (south) side gives you the Marmara coastline, the Princes' Islands, and a clear view back toward the Bosphorus and Istanbul's historic peninsula with its distinctive skyline including Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque domes. The right side faces inland toward suburban sprawl. Notable sights include: Istanbul historic peninsula (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque domes), Bosphorus strait, Sea of Marmara, Princes' Islands (Adalar).

When landing at John F Kennedy International (JFK), sit on the Left side for the best views. JFK approaches typically come in from the east or northeast over the Atlantic, landing westbound on runways 13L/R or 22L/R. On a left-side seat during approach from the northeast, you get Long Island's south shore, Jamaica Bay's distinctive wetland geometry, and the Manhattan skyline visible to the northwest in the distance. The right side faces inland over suburban Long Island with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Jamaica Bay wildlife refuge (geometric wetlands), Long Island south shore barrier beaches, Manhattan skyline (distant, northwest), Rockaway Peninsula.

The flight from Ataturk (IST) to John F Kennedy International (JFK) takes Approximately 10 to 11 hours.

The flight tracks northwest over Bulgaria and Romania, crosses the Carpathian Mountains, passes over southern Poland and Germany, then heads over the Netherlands and exits Europe near the UK. It crosses the North Atlantic via a great circle route passing south of Greenland and Iceland. Approaching North America, the route descends over Nova Scotia and New England before reaching New York. The Carpathians, the English Channel coastline, and the Newfoundland coastline are the most visually notable features during daylight portions of the crossing.