While Istanbul's takeoff offers a strong Bosphorus view, the long transatlantic cruise is scenically flat for both sides, so the flight's overall character is decided by the approach into Mexico City, where the volcanic skyline of Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl on the right gives a more dramatic and memorable final impression.
Flown IST to MEX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Istanbul to Mexico City is 7,076 miles (11,387 km), a flight of about 15 hours 45 minutes.
North Atlantic Ocean crossing, with the flight path passing south of Newfoundland and over the western Atlantic before making landfall near the Gulf of Mexico coastline en route to the Valley of Mexico.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from IST
LEFTDeparting IST toward the south/southwest, the initial climb and turn typically bank over the Sea of Marmara, giving passengers on the left a sweeping view of the Bosphorus, historic Istanbul peninsula, and the Princes' Islands before the coastline fades behind. The right side mostly shows flatter Thracian farmland and the Black Sea approach, which is far less distinctive.
Landing at MEX
RIGHTOn the typical northeast-heading landing into MEX, the final approach swings in from the southwest, putting the southeastern rim of the Valley of Mexico—dominated by the snow-capped Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes—on the right side of the aircraft. The left side instead faces the flatter northern and western sprawl of the city with less topographic drama.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from İstanbul Airport (IST) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International (MEX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Istanbul to Mexico City. While Istanbul's takeoff offers a strong Bosphorus view, the long transatlantic cruise is scenically flat for both sides, so the flight's overall character is decided by the approach into Mexico City, where the volcanic skyline of Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl on the right gives a more dramatic and memorable final impression.
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 toward the south/southwest, the initial climb and turn typically bank over the Sea of Marmara, giving passengers on the left a sweeping view of the Bosphorus, historic Istanbul peninsula, and the Princes' Islands before the coastline fades behind. The right side mostly shows flatter Thracian farmland and the Black Sea approach, which is far less distinctive. Notable sights include: Bosphorus Strait, Historic Istanbul peninsula (Hagia Sophia/Topkapi area), Sea of Marmara, Princes' Islands.
What can I see when landing at Licenciado Benito Juarez International in Mexico City?
When landing at Licenciado Benito Juarez International (MEX), sit on the Right side for the best views. On the typical northeast-heading landing into MEX, the final approach swings in from the southwest, putting the southeastern rim of the Valley of Mexico—dominated by the snow-capped Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes—on the right side of the aircraft. The left side instead faces the flatter northern and western sprawl of the city with less topographic drama. Notable sights include: Popocatepetl volcano, Iztaccihuatl volcano, southern Valley of Mexico basin, Mexico City southern suburbs.
How long is the flight from Istanbul to Mexico City?
The flight from İstanbul Airport (IST) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International (MEX) takes about 15 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 7,076 miles (11,387 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Istanbul to Mexico City flight path pass over?
North Atlantic Ocean crossing, with the flight path passing south of Newfoundland and over the western Atlantic before making landfall near the Gulf of Mexico coastline en route to the Valley of Mexico.