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AKX → ALA
Which side of the plane to sit from Aktobe Airport (Aktyubinsk) to Almaty Airport (Alma-ata)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic snow-capped peaks of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountain range as you descend into Almaty, offering a stark contrast to the vast steppe.
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Betpak-Dala Desert
Fly over the 'Hungry Steppe,' a vast desert region with unique geological formations and reddish earth tones.
Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains
The absolute highlight; these massive, glacier-topped peaks of the Northern Tian Shan loom large during the descent.
Peak Talgar
Identify the highest point of the range at 4,979 meters, standing prominently against the southern skyline.
Almaty City Center
Get a sweeping view of the 'Southern Capital' tucked right at the base of the mountains before touchdown.
Request a window seat behind the wing on the right side. The mountain views are most dramatic in the last 20-30 minutes of flight. Morning flights offer the best lighting on the peaks, while winter flights provide the most stunning snow-covered scenery.
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Infinite Kazakh Steppe
Witness the immense scale of the central plains, characterized by geometric agricultural patterns and wild grasslands.
Lake Balkhash (Distant)
On clear days, the northern horizon may reveal the shimmering turquoise waters of the world's 15th largest lake.
Northern Almaty Suburbs
During the final approach, look down at the rapid urban expansion and industrial zones extending north of the city.
The left side is generally quieter with less glare from the sun on afternoon flights heading southeast. It is the better choice for those who enjoy the minimalist beauty of the steppe and wish to avoid direct sunlight during midday travel.
Get eSIMs for Kazakhstan
Get eSIMs for KazakhstanDistance: 1,686 km (1,048 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 15 min
Departure: AKX (50.2458, 57.206699)
Arrival: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Route Type: Domestic
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