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FRU → CEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Manas International Airport (Bishkek) to Chelyabinsk Balandino Airport (Chelyabinsk)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Kyrgyz Ala-Too mountains immediately after takeoff and dramatic sunset views over the vast Kazakh steppes during evening flights.
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Kyrgyz Ala-Too Range
Majestic snow-capped peaks of the Tien Shan system visible immediately after departing Bishkek.
Betpak-Dala Desert
The 'Hungry Steppe' expanse featuring harsh, red-tinted terrain and ancient geological formations.
Sarysu River Basin
Intricate, meandering seasonal riverbeds that carve unique patterns through the central Kazakh plains.
Kostanay Agricultural Belt
The transition into the fertile 'virgin lands' with massive geometric patchworks of grain fields.
Southern Ural Foothills
The gradual rise of the Ural mountain range as the plane approaches the Russian border.
Sit on the left for the most dramatic mountain views during departure from Bishkek. In winter, the snow-covered steppe creates a minimalist white desert aesthetic. Afternoon flights provide excellent lighting for photography of the geological formations in Central Kazakhstan.
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Bishkek Cityscape
A full view of the Kyrgyz capital and the green belt of the Chu Valley during the initial climb.
Lake Balkhash Glimpse
On clear days, the distant turquoise horizon of one of Asia's largest lakes can be seen to the east.
Kazakh Salt Lakes
Dozens of small, white-rimmed mineral lakes dotting the arid landscape of the Kazakh Uplands.
Trans-Ural Forests
The sudden change to dense taiga and mixed woodland as the flight enters the Chelyabinsk region.
Chelyabinsk Industrial Hub
The sprawling metallurgical complexes and unique circular urban planning of the city during descent.
The right side is ideal for spotting the scattered salt lakes of Northern Kazakhstan and the industrial sprawl of the Urals. For late afternoon flights, the sun will be behind you on this side, preventing glare and providing clear views of the ground.
Book Hotels in ChelyabinskDistance: 1,650 km (1,025 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min
Departure: FRU (43.0612983704, 74.4776000977)
Arrival: CEK (55.305801, 61.5033)
Route Type: International
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