The left side consistently offers the most scenic continuity: Marmara Sea and Istanbul skyline at takeoff, a cruise track over the Dardanelles and northern Aegean islands, and a dramatic approach past Mount Olympus and the Thermaikos Gulf into Thessaloniki.
Flown IST to SKG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Istanbul to Thessaloniki is 305 miles (491 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Gallipoli Peninsula and Dardanelles Strait, northern Aegean Sea, and the island of Lemnos are visible along the flight path between Istanbul and Thessaloniki.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from IST
LEFTDeparting IST to the southwest, the left side offers views over the Sea of Marmara, the Princes' Islands, and Istanbul's historic peninsula skyline before the aircraft turns west toward Greece.
Landing at SKG
LEFTOn approach into SKG from the east, the left side reveals the Thermaikos Gulf, the city of Thessaloniki along the waterfront, and the distinctive silhouette of Mount Olympus rising to the south.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from İstanbul Airport (IST) to Makedonia (SKG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Istanbul to Thessaloniki. The left side consistently offers the most scenic continuity: Marmara Sea and Istanbul skyline at takeoff, a cruise track over the Dardanelles and northern Aegean islands, and a dramatic approach past Mount Olympus and the Thermaikos Gulf into Thessaloniki.
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 to the southwest, the left side offers views over the Sea of Marmara, the Princes' Islands, and Istanbul's historic peninsula skyline before the aircraft turns west toward Greece. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Princes' Islands, Istanbul historic peninsula (Hagia Sophia/Topkapi area), Bosphorus mouth.
What can I see when landing at Makedonia in Thessaloniki?
When landing at Makedonia (SKG), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach into SKG from the east, the left side reveals the Thermaikos Gulf, the city of Thessaloniki along the waterfront, and the distinctive silhouette of Mount Olympus rising to the south. Notable sights include: Thermaikos Gulf, Thessaloniki waterfront and White Tower area, Mount Olympus, Chalkidiki peninsula coastline.
How long is the flight from Istanbul to Thessaloniki?
The flight from İstanbul Airport (IST) to Makedonia (SKG) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 305 miles (491 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Istanbul to Thessaloniki flight path pass over?
Gallipoli Peninsula and Dardanelles Strait, northern Aegean Sea, and the island of Lemnos are visible along the flight path between Istanbul and Thessaloniki.