While the Istanbul departure favors the left side briefly, the bulk of the flight—crossing the Aegean's island-studded waters and the dramatic caldera approach into Santorini—rewards the right side with far more distinctive and varied scenery.
Flown IST to JTR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Istanbul to Santorini is 380 miles (611 km), a flight of about 1 hour 50 minutes.
Aegean Sea dotted with islands such as Chios, Samos, Ikaria, and the northern Cyclades (Naxos, Paros) visible along the flight path before descent into Santorini.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from IST
LEFTDeparting IST, the initial climb and turn onto the southbound track give left-side passengers a view back over the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus mouth near Istanbul's sprawling cityscape before the aircraft settles onto its southwest heading. Right-side passengers mostly see the flatter Thracian countryside inland.
Landing at JTR
RIGHTOn approach to JTR's runway 33, aircraft typically loop around the island from the south, giving right-side passengers sweeping views of Santorini's volcanic caldera, the black lava dome of Nea Kameni, and the whitewashed clifftop towns of Fira and Oia before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from İstanbul Airport (IST) to Santorini (JTR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Istanbul to Santorini. While the Istanbul departure favors the left side briefly, the bulk of the flight—crossing the Aegean's island-studded waters and the dramatic caldera approach into Santorini—rewards the right side with far more distinctive and varied scenery.
What can I see during takeoff from İstanbul Airport in Istanbul?
During takeoff from İstanbul Airport (IST), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing IST, the initial climb and turn onto the southbound track give left-side passengers a view back over the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus mouth near Istanbul's sprawling cityscape before the aircraft settles onto its southwest heading. Right-side passengers mostly see the flatter Thracian countryside inland. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus strait outline, Istanbul's outer districts, Prince Islands.
What can I see when landing at Santorini in Santorini?
When landing at Santorini (JTR), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach to JTR's runway 33, aircraft typically loop around the island from the south, giving right-side passengers sweeping views of Santorini's volcanic caldera, the black lava dome of Nea Kameni, and the whitewashed clifftop towns of Fira and Oia before touchdown. Notable sights include: Santorini caldera, Nea Kameni volcanic islet, Fira and Oia cliffside towns, Aegean Sea surrounding the island.
How long is the flight from Istanbul to Santorini?
The flight from İstanbul Airport (IST) to Santorini (JTR) takes about 1 hour 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 380 miles (611 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Istanbul to Santorini flight path pass over?
Aegean Sea dotted with islands such as Chios, Samos, Ikaria, and the northern Cyclades (Naxos, Paros) visible along the flight path before descent into Santorini.