While takeoff favors the Seoul skyline view, the right side's dramatic Istanbul approach over the Bosphorus and the Caucasus mountain views during the latter part of cruise give it a slight edge for overall scenic variety.
Flown SSN to IST? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Seoul East to Istanbul is 4,953 miles (7,972 km), a flight of about 11 hours 20 minutes.
Gobi Desert, Mongolian steppe, Tian Shan foothills, Caspian Sea, Caucasus Mountains
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from SSN
LEFTDeparting SSN and climbing westward, the left side offers views back toward Seoul's dense skyline along the Han River, framed by the granite peaks of Bukhansan National Park before the plane heads out over the Yellow Sea coastline.
Landing at IST
RIGHTOn approach into IST from the east, the right side reveals the Bosphorus Strait cutting through Istanbul, with the historic peninsula, Golden Horn, and Sea of Marmara coastline all visible as the aircraft turns onto final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Seoul Ab (SSN) to İstanbul Airport (IST)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seoul East to Istanbul. While takeoff favors the Seoul skyline view, the right side's dramatic Istanbul approach over the Bosphorus and the Caucasus mountain views during the latter part of cruise give it a slight edge for overall scenic variety.
What can I see during takeoff from Seoul Ab in Seoul East?
During takeoff from Seoul Ab (SSN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing SSN and climbing westward, the left side offers views back toward Seoul's dense skyline along the Han River, framed by the granite peaks of Bukhansan National Park before the plane heads out over the Yellow Sea coastline. Notable sights include: Seoul skyline, Han River, Bukhansan granite peaks, Yellow Sea coast.
What can I see when landing at İstanbul Airport in Istanbul?
When landing at İstanbul Airport (IST), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into IST from the east, the right side reveals the Bosphorus Strait cutting through Istanbul, with the historic peninsula, Golden Horn, and Sea of Marmara coastline all visible as the aircraft turns onto final approach. Notable sights include: Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul historic peninsula, Golden Horn, Sea of Marmara.
How long is the flight from Seoul East to Istanbul?
The flight from Seoul Ab (SSN) to İstanbul Airport (IST) takes about 11 hours 20 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,953 miles (7,972 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Seoul East to Istanbul flight path pass over?
Gobi Desert, Mongolian steppe, Tian Shan foothills, Caspian Sea, Caucasus Mountains