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ALA → KUF
Which side of the plane to sit from Almaty Airport (Alma-ata) to Kurumoch International Airport (Samara)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the vast Kazakh Lake Balkhash during the first half of the flight and the iconic Samara Bend of the Volga River during the final descent.
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Lake Balkhash
View the massive, crescent-shaped lake, unique for its half-fresh and half-saltwater composition.
Saryarka Steppe
The vast 'Yellow Range' of the Kazakh Uplands, featuring unique geological folds and highland lakes.
Southern Ural Foothills
As you approach the Russian border, the ancient, rolling elevations of the southern Urals appear to the north.
Volga River
The majestic crossing of Europe's longest river as the aircraft aligns for the Samara approach.
Samarskaya Luka
The dramatic 180-degree bend of the Volga River around the Zhiguli Mountains near the airport.
The right side is highly recommended for the approach into Samara; the Samara Bend (Luka) is a geographic marvel best seen from this side. For photography, use a polarizing filter to capture the vibrant turquoise hues of Lake Balkhash mid-flight.
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Trans-Ili Alatau
Stunning views of the snow-capped Tien Shan peaks immediately after takeoff from Almaty.
Kyzylkum Desert
The expansive red sands and arid landscapes of southern Kazakhstan stretching toward the horizon.
Syr Darya River
Watch the ancient, winding riverbed as it snakes through the desert landscape toward the Aral Sea.
Small Aral Sea
On clear days, the northern remnants of the Aral Sea are visible in the distance to the southwest.
Sit on the left for the best morning light on the Tien Shan mountains during departure. This side is also ideal for catching the sunset on late afternoon flights as you head northwest toward Russia.
Get eSIMs for Kazakhstan
Get eSIMs for RussiaDistance: 2,262 km (1,406 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 1 min
Departure: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Arrival: KUF (53.504901885986, 50.16429901123)
Route Type: International
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