Jet lag is cumulative, and a poor layover in Istanbul shows up sectors later. Aircrew Travel plans Istanbul around the crew, not the other way round.
Timing light and sleep in Istanbul
Strategic naps beat one long, mistimed sleep when crews stage through Istanbul across the window of circadian low.
Hydration, food and movement
Avoiding heavy late meals and alcohol protects the quality of sleep before the next duty out of SAW.
- Get daylight at the right local time in Istanbul
- Keep the room dark, cool and quiet
- Hydrate and keep late meals light
- Use short, strategic naps rather than one long sleep
Frequently asked questions
How do crews beat jet lag on a Istanbul layover?
Well-timed daylight, hydration, light meals and strategic naps — helped by a quiet hotel close to SAW.
Does hotel choice affect jet lag recovery in Istanbul?
Very much. A short transfer from SAW and a genuinely dark, quiet room give crews more usable recovery time.