While takeoff offers water views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained scenery with the Taurus Mountains and Cilician Plain. The descent phase offers better visual variety and more distinctive landmarks than the climb-out from Istanbul.
Flown SAW to COV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Pendik, Istanbul to Tarsus is 415 miles (668 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Aegean region and approaches the Mediterranean coast. Notable features include the transition from the Marmara basin to the Aegean plateau, the Lycian highlands and coastal ranges of southwestern Turkey, and the gradual descent toward the Cilician Plain with the Taurus Mountains dominating the southern approach.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from SAW
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Sea of Marmara and the Asian coastline as the aircraft climbs southward from Sabiha Gökçen. The water body and Istanbul's eastern suburbs are clearly visible during the initial climb phase.
Landing at COV
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Taurus Mountains and the Cilician Plain as the aircraft descends toward Çukurova. The dramatic mountain range forms a striking backdrop to the approach, and the coastal plain below becomes increasingly detailed during descent.
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 Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) to Çukurova International Airport (COV)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Pendik, Istanbul to Tarsus. While takeoff offers water views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and sustained scenery with the Taurus Mountains and Cilician Plain. The descent phase offers better visual variety and more distinctive landmarks than the climb-out from Istanbul.
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 offer views of the Sea of Marmara and the Asian coastline as the aircraft climbs southward from Sabiha Gökçen. The water body and Istanbul's eastern suburbs are clearly visible during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Pendik waterfront and residential areas, Princes' Islands (visible as small landmasses in the sea), Asian side of Istanbul extending eastward.
What can I see when landing at Çukurova International Airport in Tarsus?
When landing at Çukurova International Airport (COV), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Taurus Mountains and the Cilician Plain as the aircraft descends toward Çukurova. The dramatic mountain range forms a striking backdrop to the approach, and the coastal plain below becomes increasingly detailed during descent. Notable sights include: Taurus Mountains (Toros Dağları) with snow-capped peaks, Cilician Plain (flat agricultural lowlands), Mersin coastline and Mediterranean Sea, Tarsus city and surrounding towns.
How long is the flight from Pendik, Istanbul to Tarsus?
The flight from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) to Çukurova International Airport (COV) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 415 miles (668 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Pendik, Istanbul to Tarsus flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Aegean region and approaches the Mediterranean coast. Notable features include the transition from the Marmara basin to the Aegean plateau, the Lycian highlands and coastal ranges of southwestern Turkey, and the gradual descent toward the Cilician Plain with the Taurus Mountains dominating the southern approach.