While takeoff offers good coastal views, the landing approach into Istanbul provides superior scenery with the dramatic Bosphorus Strait and Sea of Marmara geography. Left seats capture this iconic waterway and the city's transcontinental setting more effectively than the entire flight experience.
Flown JFK to SAW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
New York to Pendik, Istanbul is 5,027 miles (8,090 km), a flight of about 10 hours.
The flight path crosses the Atlantic over the mid-Atlantic Ridge region (not visible at altitude), then over the British Isles and North Sea. Over continental Europe, passengers see the Alps (if routed south of typical corridor), the Carpathian Mountains, and the Danube River valley. The approach to Istanbul crosses the Balkans and the Black Sea's southern coast before descending toward the Bosphorus. Right seats offer better views of the Alps during the European crossing; left seats favor the Black Sea approach.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
_in_Istanbul.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from JFK
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Long Island Sound and the Connecticut coastline during the initial climb-out heading northeast. The Atlantic Ocean and barrier islands come into view as altitude increases, providing clear water and coastal geography.
Landing at SAW
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus Strait, and Istanbul's European and Asian districts during descent into SAW. The approach typically comes from the west over the water, making the left side ideal for viewing the strait's geography and the city's waterfront.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from John F Kennedy International (JFK) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from New York to Pendik, Istanbul. While takeoff offers good coastal views, the landing approach into Istanbul provides superior scenery with the dramatic Bosphorus Strait and Sea of Marmara geography. Left seats capture this iconic waterway and the city's transcontinental setting more effectively than the entire flight experience.
What can I see during takeoff from John F Kennedy International in New York?
During takeoff from John F Kennedy International (JFK), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Long Island Sound and the Connecticut coastline during the initial climb-out heading northeast. The Atlantic Ocean and barrier islands come into view as altitude increases, providing clear water and coastal geography. Notable sights include: Long Island Sound, Connecticut coastline, Atlantic barrier islands, Manhattan skyline (receding behind).
What can I see when landing at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Pendik, Istanbul?
When landing at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus Strait, and Istanbul's European and Asian districts during descent into SAW. The approach typically comes from the west over the water, making the left side ideal for viewing the strait's geography and the city's waterfront. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul's Asian shore (Pendik district), Anatolian Plateau (distant).
How long is the flight from New York to Pendik, Istanbul?
The flight from John F Kennedy International (JFK) to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) takes about 10 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 5,027 miles (8,090 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the New York to Pendik, Istanbul flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Atlantic over the mid-Atlantic Ridge region (not visible at altitude), then over the British Isles and North Sea. Over continental Europe, passengers see the Alps (if routed south of typical corridor), the Carpathian Mountains, and the Danube River valley. The approach to Istanbul crosses the Balkans and the Black Sea's southern coast before descending toward the Bosphorus. Right seats offer better views of the Alps during the European crossing; left seats favor the Black Sea approach.