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ALA → TSE
Which side of the plane to sit from Almaty Airport (Alma-ata) to Astana International Airport (Tselinograd)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains during takeoff and the best perspective of the turquoise Lake Balkhash mid-flight.
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Trans-Ili Alatau Peaks
Immediately after takeoff, witness the snow-capped Northern Tian Shan mountain range towering over the city.
Lake Balkhash
One of the largest lakes in Asia, visible for a significant portion of the flight with its distinctive crescent shape.
Saryarka Steppe
The UNESCO-listed Kazakh Uplands featuring golden plains and occasional low-rising rocky hills.
Astana Landmark Approach
Depending on the wind direction, you may see the futuristic architecture of Astana, including the Khan Shatyr tent.
Sit near the back to keep the wing out of your photos of the mountains. The view of Lake Balkhash is best around 20-30 minutes into the flight. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for the lake's turquoise hues.
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Almaty Urban Sprawl
A clear view of the dense urban layout of Almaty and the transition into the Almaty Region suburbs.
Betpak-Dala Desert
The western edge of the 'Hungry Steppe' displays a rugged, arid landscape with unique geological formations.
Karaganda Outskirts
Aerial views of the industrial complexes and residential blocks surrounding the historic coal-mining hub.
Choose this side for morning flights to minimize solar glare. It provides a great perspective of the vast emptiness of the Kazakh steppe, which is particularly striking in winter when covered in a seamless sheet of snow.
Get eSIMs for Kazakhstan
Get eSIMs for KazakhstanDistance: 951 km (591 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Arrival: TSE (51.02220153808594, 71.46690368652344)
Route Type: Domestic
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