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ALA → KZN
Which side of the plane to sit from Almaty Airport (Alma-ata) to Kazan International Airport (Kazan)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic contrast, starting with the towering Tien Shan mountains upon departure and ending with the wide, winding Volga River during the approach to Kazan.
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Trans-Ili Alatau
Spectacular views of the northernmost range of the Tien Shan mountains immediately after takeoff from Almaty.
Ural River
The symbolic border between Asia and Europe, visible as a silver ribbon winding through the southern plains.
Samara Bend
A massive, scenic U-turn of the Volga River surrounded by the Zhiguli Mountains and dense national parks.
Samara and Tolyatti
Large urban sprawls and industrial centers along the banks of the Volga reservoir system.
Sit on the left for the best mountain views during the initial 15 minutes of the flight. For morning departures, the sun will be behind or to the right of the aircraft, providing excellent lighting for photos of the landscape. During the descent, look for the expansive Kuybyshev Reservoir, the largest in Europe.
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Kazakh Steppe
An endless horizon of the Great Steppe, featuring unique circular irrigation patterns and remote settlements.
Mugodzhar Hills
The southern tip of the Ural Mountains, appearing as weathered, rocky ridges amidst the flat terrain.
Southern Urals
The transition from dry steppe to the lush, forested hills of the Bashkortostan region as you enter Russia.
Kama River Confluence
The meeting point of the Kama and Volga rivers, creating a massive inland sea effect near Kazan.
Kazan Cityscape
Depending on the landing pattern, views of the Kazan Kremlin and the iconic Qolsharif Mosque's blue domes.
The right side is ideal for observing the gradual change in geography from the arid Kazakhstan plains to the dense Russian forests. If landing to the North, this side provides the best view of the city center. In the winter, the frozen rivers and snow-covered steppe create a stark, beautiful minimalist landscape.
Book Hotels in KazanDistance: 2,399 km (1,491 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 12 min
Departure: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Arrival: KZN (55.606201171875, 49.278701782227)
Route Type: International
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