The right side captures the Axios/Vardar valley in Greece during cruise, Lake Doiran on the border, and then delivers the spectacular Bosphorus and Istanbul historic peninsula on approach. The landing view of Istanbul from the right is one of the most iconic urban aerial approaches in Europe.
Flight Path
The flight tracks southeast over the Axios River valley in northern Greece, crossing over Thessaloniki's broader region to the west, then over the northern Aegean coastal plains of Thrace. The route passes over the Greek-Turkish border region near the Evros River, then crosses Turkish Thrace — flat agricultural land — before descending toward Istanbul and the Bosphorus.
Phase by phase
Takeoff from
Landing at
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
Will your flight be in sunlight?
See exactly which side of the plane gets sun and shade at your departure time.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Skopje (SKP) to Ataturk (IST)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Skopje to Istanbul. The right side captures the Axios/Vardar valley in Greece during cruise, Lake Doiran on the border, and then delivers the spectacular Bosphorus and Istanbul historic peninsula on approach. The landing view of Istanbul from the right is one of the most iconic urban aerial approaches in Europe.
What can I see during takeoff from Skopje in Skopje?
During takeoff from Skopje (SKP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Skopje Airport's primary runway (16/34) means departures heading southeast toward Istanbul will climb out over the Vardar River valley. The left side gives you a clear view of Mount Vodno rising directly above Skopje city, with the Millennium Cross visible on its summit ridge. The old town and the Skopje Fortress sit along the Vardar below. Notable sights include: Mount Vodno with Millennium Cross, Skopje city center and Vardar River valley, Skopje Fortress (Kale), Šar Mountains to the southwest.
What can I see when landing at Ataturk in Istanbul?
When landing at Ataturk (IST), sit on the Right side for the best views. Ataturk Airport (now used for cargo/general aviation but historically the reference here) sits on the European side of Istanbul. Approaches from the northeast over the Black Sea coast or from the east bring the right side over the Bosphorus strait, the Golden Horn, and the historic peninsula with Sultanahmet. The right seat gives you the full panorama of the strait and the old city. Notable sights include: Bosphorus Strait, Sultanahmet historic peninsula (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque), Golden Horn inlet, Sea of Marmara.
How long is the flight from Skopje to Istanbul?
The flight from Skopje (SKP) to Ataturk (IST) takes Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
What does the Skopje to Istanbul flight path pass over?
The flight tracks southeast over the Axios River valley in northern Greece, crossing over Thessaloniki's broader region to the west, then over the northern Aegean coastal plains of Thrace. The route passes over the Greek-Turkish border region near the Evros River, then crosses Turkish Thrace — flat agricultural land — before descending toward Istanbul and the Bosphorus.