While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach and the most dramatic single landmark—Erciyes Mountain—are better positioned for left-side seats. The volcano's appearance during descent makes the left side the stronger choice for the overall journey.
Flown SAW to ASR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Pendik, Istanbul to Kayseri is 360 miles (579 km), a flight of about 1 hour 10 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Anatolian plateau from northwest to southeast. Notable features include the transition from the Marmara coastal zone to the interior plateau, the Sakarya River valley (visible as a green corridor cutting through tan terrain in the mid-flight section), and the gradual rise in elevation as the aircraft moves inland toward the Kayseri basin. The plateau terrain becomes increasingly visible around the 30-minute mark, with scattered towns and agricultural patterns dominating the landscape.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SAW
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Sea of Marmara and the Asian side of Istanbul's urban sprawl during the initial climb-out. The aircraft departs eastward from Sabiha Gökçen, so right-side passengers get the water body and coastal geography immediately.
Landing at ASR
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of the Kayseri plain and the approach from the west. As the aircraft descends toward Erkilet Airport, left-side passengers see the flat agricultural landscape and the city of Kayseri itself positioned to the left during the final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) to Erkilet (ASR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Pendik, Istanbul to Kayseri. While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach and the most dramatic single landmark—Erciyes Mountain—are better positioned for left-side seats. The volcano's appearance during descent makes the left side the stronger choice for the overall journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Pendik, Istanbul?
During takeoff from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Sea of Marmara and the Asian side of Istanbul's urban sprawl during the initial climb-out. The aircraft departs eastward from Sabiha Gökçen, so right-side passengers get the water body and coastal geography immediately. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Pendik waterfront and residential districts, Bosphorus strait (distant), Asian Istanbul sprawl.
What can I see when landing at Erkilet in Kayseri?
When landing at Erkilet (ASR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the Kayseri plain and the approach from the west. As the aircraft descends toward Erkilet Airport, left-side passengers see the flat agricultural landscape and the city of Kayseri itself positioned to the left during the final approach. Notable sights include: Kayseri city and urban sprawl, Erciyes Mountain (dormant volcano, 12,848 ft), Kayseri plain and agricultural fields, Sultan Marshes (seasonal wetland).
How long is the flight from Pendik, Istanbul to Kayseri?
The flight from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) to Erkilet (ASR) takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 360 miles (579 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Pendik, Istanbul to Kayseri flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Anatolian plateau from northwest to southeast. Notable features include the transition from the Marmara coastal zone to the interior plateau, the Sakarya River valley (visible as a green corridor cutting through tan terrain in the mid-flight section), and the gradual rise in elevation as the aircraft moves inland toward the Kayseri basin. The plateau terrain becomes increasingly visible around the 30-minute mark, with scattered towns and agricultural patterns dominating the landscape.