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ALA → LED
Which side of the plane to sit from Almaty Airport (Alma-ata) to Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the clear winner for this transcontinental journey, offering a front-row seat to the turquoise Lake Balkhash shortly after takeoff and the majestic Lake Ladoga during the final descent, alongside the geographic transition of the Ural Mountains.
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Lake Balkhash
The striking turquoise color of the world's 15th largest lake, which is uniquely half-fresh and half-saltwater.
Ural Mountains
The symbolic geographic border between Europe and Asia, visible as weathered ridges beneath the wing.
Rybinsk Reservoir
One of the largest man-made bodies of water in the world, often appearing like an inland sea.
Lake Ladoga
The massive, deep blue expanse of Europe's largest freshwater lake, a highlight just minutes before landing.
St. Petersburg Panorama
A grand view of the Neva River, the Peter and Paul Fortress, and the historic center's unique architectural grid.
The right side is superior for landmark spotting. About 30-45 minutes after takeoff from Almaty, look for the distinct shape of Lake Balkhash. For the best lighting on the water features, a morning or midday flight is ideal as the sun will be positioned to illuminate the landscape without causing excessive glare on your window.
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Almaty City
A brief but beautiful view of the 'Garden City' and the Trans-Ili Alatau foothills immediately after departure.
Turgay Plateau
Vast, ancient eroded landscapes and seasonal riverbeds of central Kazakhstan's steppe.
Volga River
A major crossing over the heart of Russia's waterway network, typically seen mid-flight.
Russian Taiga
Endless stretches of dense coniferous forests and marshes as you enter the northern Russian latitudes.
Gulf of Finland
The western maritime gateway to St. Petersburg visible during the final banking maneuvers into Pulkovo Airport.
Choose the left side for evening flights to enjoy a prolonged sunset over the Russian horizon. This side is also better for spotting the expansive urban sprawl of the Moscow region if the flight path tracks slightly south. Keep your window shade open during the descent for a chance to see the Baltic coastline.
Get eSIMs for Kazakhstan
Get eSIMs for RussiaDistance: 3,609 km (2,243 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 15 min
Departure: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)
Route Type: International
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