When you wonder, how close is Turkey to Israel?, the answer might surprise you. Despite being two distinct countries with their own rich histories and cultures, Turkey and Israel are geographically quite close, making travel and connections between them easier than you might think.
The Straight-Line Distance Between Turkey and Israel
The shortest air travel distance between the central points of Turkey and Israel is approximately 879 to 881 kilometers (about 546 to 547 miles). This measurement is often referred to as the “bird fly” distance, meaning the straight line from one country’s center to the other’s.
To put this into perspective, a direct flight from Israel to Turkey typically takes just under 1 hour-around 0.97 to 0.98 hours-when flying at an average airplane speed of about 560 to 567 miles per hour.
Closest Border-to-Border Distance
While the central points of the two countries are nearly 880 kilometers apart, the closest distance between their borders is significantly shorter-about 267 kilometers (or 166 miles). This means that if you were to travel from the nearest point in Israel to the nearest point in Turkey, it would be a much shorter trip, roughly a third of the distance between their centers.
Distance Between Major Cities: Istanbul and Tel Aviv
Looking at specific cities, the distance between Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city, and Tel Aviv, one of Israel’s major cities, is about 1,121 kilometers (or 696 miles) in a straight line. The driving distance, however, is longer-approximately 1,762 kilometers (or 1,095 miles)-due to the need to navigate roads and borders.
The flight direction from Istanbul to Tel Aviv is generally southeast, with flights typically lasting around 2 hours depending on airline routes and conditions.
Why Does This Distance Matter?
Understanding the proximity between Turkey and Israel is important for several reasons:
– Travel and Tourism: The relatively short flight times make it feasible for tourists and business travelers to visit each other’s countries with ease.
– Cultural and Economic Exchange: Closer geographic distance facilitates trade, cultural exchange, and diplomatic relations.
– Regional Dynamics: Both countries are key players in the Middle East, and their geographic closeness influences political and security considerations.
Summary of Key Distances
| Distance Type | Kilometers | Miles | Estimated Flight Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Center to Center | 879-881 | 546-547 | ~0.97 – 0.98 hours |
| Closest Border to Border | 267 | 166 | ~0.29 hours |
| Istanbul to Tel Aviv (flight) | 1,121 | 696 | ~2 hours (approx.) |
| Istanbul to Tel Aviv (drive) | 1,762 | 1,095 | N/A |
Final Thoughts
Turkey and Israel are geographically close neighbors, separated by less than 900 kilometers at their centers and even less at their nearest borders. This proximity supports easy travel and interaction between the two countries, making them more connected than many realize. Whether for tourism, business, or cultural ties, the closeness of Turkey to Israel is a key factor in their ongoing relationship.