Loading map...

DME destination photo
ALA destination photo

DMEALA

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a breathtaking arrival experience as the aircraft approaches the massive, snow-capped Trans-Ili Alatau mountains which rise abruptly from the plains.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
⛰️

Southern Ural Mountains

The ancient, rolling peaks marking the boundary between Europe and Asia appear shortly after the Russian-Kazakh border.

🏜️

Kyzylkum Desert

Dramatic views of the red sand desert patterns as the flight heads south into Central Asia.

🐍

Syr Darya River

The ancient river that has sustained Silk Road civilizations for millennia, winding through the arid landscape.

🏔️

Trans-Ili Alatau

The spectacular northern range of the Tien Shan mountains, featuring peaks over 4,000 meters.

🏙️

Almaty Foothills

Stunning views of the 'Apple City' nestled directly at the base of the massive mountain wall during final descent.

This is the side for the 'wow' factor. Sit on the right to see the Tien Shan mountains dominate the horizon during the last 30 minutes of flight. For the best photography, choose a daytime flight and avoid seats directly over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the rugged terrain.

Left Side Highlights
6.4
🏙️

Moscow Outskirts

Aerial views of the sprawling Moscow metropolitan area and the dense forests surrounding Domodedovo.

🌊

Volga River

A magnificent crossing of Europe's longest river near the city of Samara.

🌾

The Kazakh Steppe

The vast, seemingly endless horizons of the Saryarka, characterized by golden plains and remote settlements.

💧

Lake Balkhash

On clear days with a slightly eastern path, the turquoise crescent of the world's 15th largest lake is visible in the distance.

The left side is ideal for morning flights to witness a sunrise over the vast Eurasian landmass. It generally offers a better perspective of Almaty's city layout if the plane approaches from the west and turns into the runway.

Top Activities in Alma-ata
Route Information

Distance: 3,081 km (1,914 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 37 min

Departure: DME (55.40879821777344, 37.90629959106445)

Arrival: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.