While takeoff scenery is mild on both sides, the left side gains a strong edge from the dramatic Istanbul/Bosphorus approach and from facing the Himalayan foothills, Tibetan Plateau, and Pamir ranges during the long cruise segment across Asia, making it the more visually rewarding side overall.
Flown SGN to IST? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Ho Chi Minh City to Istanbul is 5,102 miles (8,211 km), a flight of about 10 hours 50 minutes.
Himalayan foothills and eastern Tibetan Plateau, Pamir Mountains, high-altitude deserts of Central Asia, and the Caspian Sea basin along the route toward Turkey
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SGN
RIGHTDeparting SGN toward the southwest (25 direction) or turning that way after takeoff, the right side gives a clear view of the Saigon River winding through Ho Chi Minh City and the patchwork of Mekong Delta rice paddies before the aircraft climbs north-westward. It's flat but visually distinct urban-to-delta transition.
Landing at IST
LEFTOn approach into IST, arrivals commonly track in from the south over the Sea of Marmara before turning onto final for the northerly runways, giving left-side passengers a sweeping view of the Bosphorus strait, historic Istanbul skyline, and the Marmara coastline. This is one of the most recognizable urban approaches in the world.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Tansonnhat International (SGN) to İstanbul Airport (IST)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Istanbul. While takeoff scenery is mild on both sides, the left side gains a strong edge from the dramatic Istanbul/Bosphorus approach and from facing the Himalayan foothills, Tibetan Plateau, and Pamir ranges during the long cruise segment across Asia, making it the more visually rewarding side overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Tansonnhat International in Ho Chi Minh City?
During takeoff from Tansonnhat International (SGN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing SGN toward the southwest (25 direction) or turning that way after takeoff, the right side gives a clear view of the Saigon River winding through Ho Chi Minh City and the patchwork of Mekong Delta rice paddies before the aircraft climbs north-westward. It's flat but visually distinct urban-to-delta transition. Notable sights include: Saigon River, Ho Chi Minh City skyline, Mekong Delta rice paddies, Bien Dong coastline haze in distance.
What can I see when landing at İstanbul Airport in Istanbul?
When landing at İstanbul Airport (IST), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach into IST, arrivals commonly track in from the south over the Sea of Marmara before turning onto final for the northerly runways, giving left-side passengers a sweeping view of the Bosphorus strait, historic Istanbul skyline, and the Marmara coastline. This is one of the most recognizable urban approaches in the world. Notable sights include: Bosphorus Strait, Sea of Marmara, Istanbul historic peninsula (Hagia Sophia/Topkapi area), Princes' Islands.
How long is the flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Istanbul?
The flight from Tansonnhat International (SGN) to İstanbul Airport (IST) takes about 10 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,102 miles (8,211 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Ho Chi Minh City to Istanbul flight path pass over?
Himalayan foothills and eastern Tibetan Plateau, Pamir Mountains, high-altitude deserts of Central Asia, and the Caspian Sea basin along the route toward Turkey