Loading map...
FRU → IKT
Which side of the plane to sit from Manas International Airport (Bishkek) to Irkutsk Airport (Irkutsk)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a dramatic sequence of scenery, starting with the snow-capped Tien Shan mountains, followed by the rugged Altai range, and culminating in a breathtaking approach over the southern tip of Lake Baikal.
Search flights from FRU to IKT
Ala-Too Range
Immediate views of the towering 4,000m+ peaks of the Tien Shan mountains located directly south of Bishkek.
Altai Peaks
Mid-flight views of glaciated summits where the borders of Russia, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia converge.
Lake Baikal
The world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake, visible in its massive scale during the final approach phase.
Angara River Source
The specific point where the Angara River flows out of Baikal, often marked by the Shaman Rock near Listvyanka.
The approach into IKT often involves a circular pattern over the southern tip of Baikal; the right side is critical for seeing the lake's crystalline water or winter ice patterns. Morning flights are ideal to avoid direct glare while photographing the mountains.
Book Hotels in Irkutsk
Bishkek Cityscape
A clear view of the Kyrgyz capital and the geometric layout of the Chuy Valley immediately after departure.
Saryarka Steppe
The vast, golden plains of southeastern Kazakhstan stretching towards the horizon during the first half of the flight.
Siberian Taiga
Dense, dark green coniferous forests and winding river systems typical of the Irkutsk Oblast during the descent.
Sit on this side for a sunset view if flying in the late afternoon or evening, as the sun will be to the west. It also provides a better perspective of the Angara River valley if the flight path approaches Irkutsk from the northwest.
Get eSIMs for Kyrgyzstan
Get eSIMs for RussiaDistance: 2,440 km (1,516 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 15 min
Departure: FRU (43.0612983704, 74.4776000977)
Arrival: IKT (52.268001556396, 104.38899993896)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.