Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Pendik, Istanbul to Heraklion. While takeoff favors the right for Istanbul's Sea of Marmara views, the landing approach on the left provides superior scenery of Crete's dramatic northern coast and mountain range. Since the descent occupies more time and offers more visually distinctive geography, left-side seats deliver the better overall experience for this route.

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 coastline of Istanbul as the aircraft climbs eastward from Sabiha Gökçen. You'll see the sprawling city districts and the water body that defines Istanbul's geography. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Asian Istanbul coastline (Pendik and Kartal districts), Princes' Islands (small islands dotting the sea), European Istanbul across the water to the northwest.

When landing at Nikos Kazantzakis (HER), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of Crete's northern coastline and the approach to Heraklion. You'll see the island's mountainous spine and the Aegean Sea as you descend toward the airport on the north coast. Notable sights include: Crete's northern coastline, Ida Mountains (central spine of Crete), Heraklion city and harbor, Aegean Sea.

The flight from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) to Nikos Kazantzakis (HER) takes 1h 15m.

Aegean Sea crossing with scattered Greek islands (Sporades and northern Cyclades) visible below, including Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos; the transition from Turkish to Greek airspace over open water; gradual approach to Crete with its distinctive mountainous profile becoming visible 30-40 minutes before landing