Right side scores higher due to superior landing scenery—Malta's dramatic limestone cliffs, harbors, and fortified architecture are visually distinctive and recognizable. Takeoff from Istanbul also favors the right with the Sea of Marmara and Bosphorus. Left side is dominated by open Mediterranean (5+ hours of ocean), which limits scenic value despite the Anatolian departure.
Flown SAW to MLA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Pendik, Istanbul to Malta is 874 miles (1,406 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
Eastern Mediterranean open water, Greek islands (Crete visible to the south at distance), Ionian Sea, transition from Turkish airspace to Greek and Maltese airspace
Great circle distance and headings ›_in_Istanbul.jpg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SAW
RIGHTRight side captures Istanbul's urban sprawl, the Sea of Marmara coastline, and the Bosphorus strait during departure from Sabiha Gökçen. Left side faces inland toward Anatolian plains with minimal visual interest.
Landing at MLA
RIGHTRight side offers the dramatic approach to Malta: the island's limestone cliffs, harbors at Valletta and the Grand Harbour, and the Mediterranean Sea. Left side shows open water and distant Sicily, which is less visually distinctive 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 Luqa (MLA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Pendik, Istanbul to Malta. Right side scores higher due to superior landing scenery—Malta's dramatic limestone cliffs, harbors, and fortified architecture are visually distinctive and recognizable. Takeoff from Istanbul also favors the right with the Sea of Marmara and Bosphorus. Left side is dominated by open Mediterranean (5+ hours of ocean), which limits scenic value despite the Anatolian departure.
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 captures Istanbul's urban sprawl, the Sea of Marmara coastline, and the Bosphorus strait during departure from Sabiha Gökçen. Left side faces inland toward Anatolian plains with minimal visual interest. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus strait, Istanbul urban districts (Pendik, Tuzla), Anatolian plateau edge.
What can I see when landing at Luqa in Malta?
When landing at Luqa (MLA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers the dramatic approach to Malta: the island's limestone cliffs, harbors at Valletta and the Grand Harbour, and the Mediterranean Sea. Left side shows open water and distant Sicily, which is less visually distinctive during descent. Notable sights include: Malta's limestone coastline and cliffs, Grand Harbour (Valletta), Marsamxett Harbour, Mediterranean Sea.
How long is the flight from Pendik, Istanbul to Malta?
The flight from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) to Luqa (MLA) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 874 miles (1,406 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Pendik, Istanbul to Malta flight path pass over?
Eastern Mediterranean open water, Greek islands (Crete visible to the south at distance), Ionian Sea, transition from Turkish airspace to Greek and Maltese airspace