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ALA → PLX
Which side of the plane to sit from Almaty Airport (Alma-ata) to Semipalatinsk Airport (Semiplatinsk)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular view of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains immediately after takeoff and follows the lush Irtysh River valley during the descent into Semey.
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Trans-Ili Alatau Peaks
Breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and northern Tien Shan glaciers right after departure from Almaty.
Kapshagay Reservoir
A massive man-made sea on the Ili River, contrasting sharply with the surrounding arid landscapes.
Irtysh River Meanders
The winding path of the Irtysh River becomes prominent as you approach Semey, showing lush greenery along its banks.
Sit on the right for the best morning light on the Tien Shan mountains. Keep your camera ready during the first 10 minutes for the mountain peaks and the last 15 minutes for the river systems near Semey. Seasonal snow cover in winter makes the steppe look particularly otherworldly from this side.
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Almaty Urban Skyline
Aerial view of Kazakhstan's largest city, showcasing its grid-like structure nestled against the mountain foothills.
Lake Balkhash (Distal)
On clear days, the western horizon reveals the turquoise shimmer of the world's 15th largest lake.
Central Kazakh Uplands
The vast, rolling terrain of the Saryarka steppe, featuring ancient geological formations and seasonal salt pans.
Choose the left side for evening flights to witness dramatic sunsets over the vast Kazakh Steppe. This side provides a better perspective of the flat horizon and the massive scale of the central Asian plains.
Get eSIMs for Kazakhstan
Get eSIMs for KazakhstanDistance: 815 km (506 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Arrival: PLX (50.351295, 80.234398)
Route Type: Domestic
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