About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ataturk (IST) to Ninoy Aquino International (MNL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Istanbul to Manila. Left side wins at both ends of the flight. Over the Bosphorus and Istanbul's historic core on departure, and over Manila Bay with its striking harbor geometry on arrival. During the cruise, the left side also faces south toward the Himalayas as the route crosses Central Asia, though at typical cruising altitude these appear as a distant white ridge on the horizon rather than dramatic close-up views.
What can I see during takeoff from Ataturk in Istanbul?
During takeoff from Ataturk (IST), sit on the Left side for the best views. IST typically departs eastbound on runway 06, so the left (north) side gives you the Bosphorus Strait, the historic peninsula of old Istanbul with the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque visible, and the Golden Horn inlet. The right side faces the Sea of Marmara but the city's most iconic geography is concentrated to the north and northwest. Notable sights include: Bosphorus Strait, Golden Horn inlet, historic Sultanahmet peninsula, Princes' Islands in the Sea of Marmara.
What can I see when landing at Ninoy Aquino International in Manila?
When landing at Ninoy Aquino International (MNL), sit on the Left side for the best views. NAIA typically lands on runway 06 or 24. On the common approach from the northwest on runway 06, the left side faces Manila Bay — one of the most visually striking natural harbors in Southeast Asia — with the city skyline of Makati and Bonifacio Global City visible inland. The right side faces the flat Laguna de Bay and suburban sprawl with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Manila Bay, Makati CBD skyline, Laguna de Bay, Corregidor Island in the bay mouth.
How long is the flight from Istanbul to Manila?
The flight from Ataturk (IST) to Ninoy Aquino International (MNL) takes Approximately 9 to 10 hours.
What does the Istanbul to Manila flight path pass over?
The route tracks east across Turkey over the Anatolian plateau, then crosses northern Iran and the Caspian Sea region, transits Pakistan and northern India skirting the southern edge of the Himalayas and Hindu Kush, crosses Bangladesh and Myanmar, then descends over the South China Sea toward Luzon. The Irrawaddy River delta in Myanmar and the Gulf of Tonkin are notable features in the final third of the flight.