Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery from Istanbul—the Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus, and urban-to-water transition provide more consistent visual interest than the landing approach. While the right side's Strait of Gibraltar and Rif Mountains are dramatic, they occupy only the final descent phase. The left side's advantage during the extended cruise over the Aegean Sea (Greek islands, Turkish coastline) and the full Istanbul departure sequence outweighs the landing-phase advantage on the right.
Flown SAW to TNG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Pendik, Istanbul to Tanger is 1,930 miles (3,105 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
Aegean Sea with Greek islands (Lesbos, Chios, Samos visible on left side), Turkish Aegean coast near Izmir, transition to eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus visible south of track, Lebanese and Syrian coasts, Atlas Mountains foothills approaching Morocco
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SAW
LEFTLeft side captures Istanbul's urban sprawl, the Sea of Marmara, and the dramatic transition from city to water. The Bosphorus strait and surrounding hills create immediate visual interest during climb-out from Sabiha Gökçen, which sits on the Asian side of the city.
Landing at TNG
RIGHTRight side offers the Strait of Gibraltar approach and North African coastline. As the aircraft descends toward Tangier Ibn Batouta, the right side reveals the dramatic meeting of the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, the Rif Mountains, and the Moroccan coast with its distinctive geography.
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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 Ibn Batouta (TNG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Pendik, Istanbul to Tanger. Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery from Istanbul—the Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus, and urban-to-water transition provide more consistent visual interest than the landing approach. While the right side's Strait of Gibraltar and Rif Mountains are dramatic, they occupy only the final descent phase. The left side's advantage during the extended cruise over the Aegean Sea (Greek islands, Turkish coastline) and the full Istanbul departure sequence outweighs the landing-phase advantage on the right.
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 Left side for the best views. Left side captures Istanbul's urban sprawl, the Sea of Marmara, and the dramatic transition from city to water. The Bosphorus strait and surrounding hills create immediate visual interest during climb-out from Sabiha Gökçen, which sits on the Asian side of the city. Notable sights include: Sea of Marmara, Istanbul urban districts (Pendik, Tuzla), Asian-side hills and forested terrain, Bosphorus strait entrance.
What can I see when landing at Ibn Batouta in Tanger?
When landing at Ibn Batouta (TNG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers the Strait of Gibraltar approach and North African coastline. As the aircraft descends toward Tangier Ibn Batouta, the right side reveals the dramatic meeting of the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, the Rif Mountains, and the Moroccan coast with its distinctive geography. Notable sights include: Strait of Gibraltar (European and African shores), Rif Mountains, Tangier Bay, Atlantic coastline near Tangier.
How long is the flight from Pendik, Istanbul to Tanger?
The flight from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) to Ibn Batouta (TNG) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,930 miles (3,105 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Pendik, Istanbul to Tanger flight path pass over?
Aegean Sea with Greek islands (Lesbos, Chios, Samos visible on left side), Turkish Aegean coast near Izmir, transition to eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus visible south of track, Lebanese and Syrian coasts, Atlas Mountains foothills approaching Morocco