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AUH โ TSE
Which side of the plane to sit from Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi) to Astana International Airport (Tselinograd)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning sequence of coastal views over the Persian Gulf, the dramatic Alborz mountain range in Iran, and a broad perspective of the Caspian Sea's western shoreline.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Aerial views of the UAE capital's skyline and the turquoise waters of Saadiyat Island immediately after departure.
Persian Gulf
Vibrant blue waters and offshore oil platforms as the flight crosses from the UAE toward the Iranian coast.
Alborz Mountains
Jagged, snow-capped peaks north of Tehran, including views of the iconic Mount Damavand in the distance.
Caspian Sea
The world's largest inland sea, providing a distinct contrast between the deep blue water and the arid northern coastline.
Kazakh Steppe
The vast, seemingly endless grasslands of Central Asia characterized by unique river patterns and seasonal colors.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind the plane, reducing glare on the window. Keep your camera ready about 90 minutes into the flight for the Iranian mountain ranges. In winter, the transition from the brown Iranian plateau to the white, snow-covered Kazakh steppes is visually striking.
Yas Island
Clear views of the Yas Marina Circuit and the red roof of Ferrari World shortly after taking off from AUH.
Dasht-e Kavir
The Great Salt Desert of Iran, featuring incredible geometric salt crust patterns and vast uninhabited basins.
Karakum Desert
The arid landscape of Turkmenistan, showcasing vast sand dunes and remote desert outposts.
Aral Sea Basin
Views of the receding water levels and the salt-caked remains of the southern Aral Sea region.
Astana Skyline
The futuristic architecture of Kazakhstan's capital, including the Baiterek Tower, often visible during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for capturing the golden hour glow over the Iranian deserts if flying in the late afternoon. During the descent into Astana (TSE), this side often provides a better view of the city's unique 21st-century master-planned architecture depending on the wind direction.
Distance: 3,288 km (2,043 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 52 min
Departure: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Arrival: TSE (51.02220153808594, 71.46690368652344)
Route Type: International
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