ALA → URC

Trans-Ili Alatau

Immediate views of the jagged, snow-capped peaks rising directly south of Almaty city.

Central Tien Shan Glaciers

A spectacular display of permanent ice fields and high-altitude alpine basins along the border region.

Khan Tengri & Pobeda Peak

On clear days, the distant pyramids of the highest peaks in the range are visible to the south.

Charyn Canyon Area

Look for the deep, reddish sedimentary rock formations and rugged gorges as you fly eastward.

Bogda Peak

The dramatic 5,445m peak of Bogda Shan dominates the horizon as the flight prepares for arrival in Urumqi.

Kapshagay Reservoir

Shortly after takeoff from Almaty, look north to see this massive blue reservoir on the Ili River.

Ili River Delta

Observe the winding silver ribbons of the Ili River as it flows through the arid Kazakh steppe toward Lake Balkhash.

Dzungarian Basin

As you enter Chinese airspace, the landscape transforms into the vast, arid plains of the Dzungarian Basin.

Urumqi Suburbs

On descent, the left side provides a wide view of the expanding industrial and urban sprawl of northern Urumqi.