Loading map...
FRU → KZN
Which side of the plane to sit from Manas International Airport (Bishkek) to Kazan International Airport (Kazan)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more dramatic view of the transition from the high-altitude Kyrgyz mountains to the vast Kazakh steppe, finishing with a superior angle of the Volga River approach.
Ala-Too Foothills
Dramatic views of the northern Tian Shan range during the initial climb out of Bishkek.
Betpak-Dala Plateau
The 'Hungry Steppe' reveals its rugged, arid beauty and unique geological formations in central Kazakhstan.
Kyzylorda Tracks
Distant views of the historic rail routes that cross the desert toward the Aral Sea region.
Volga River Delta
As the flight enters Russian airspace, the expansive blue ribbon of the Volga dominates the horizon.
Samara Bend
The massive U-turn of the Volga river visible in the distance during the descent toward Kazan.
Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, which illuminates the Kazakh landscape perfectly. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing to capture the expansive Volga River as the plane begins its final approach into KZN.
Great Kazakh Steppe
Endless horizons of golden grasslands that characterize the heart of Eurasia.
Mugodzhar Hills
The southern-most tip of the Ural Mountains appearing as low, rolling ridges on the horizon.
Kuybyshev Reservoir
One of the largest inland water bodies in Europe, shimmering as you approach the Tatarstan border.
Kama Confluence
The massive meeting point of the Kama and Volga rivers, looking like a vast inland sea.
Kazan Skyline
Depending on the landing direction, a view of the city's mix of minarets and orthodox cathedrals.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Ural foothills. In winter, this side offers a mesmerizing view of the 'white desert' where the steppe and frozen lakes blend into a single snowy expanse.
Distance: 2,276 km (1,414 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 2 min
Departure: FRU (43.0612983704, 74.4776000977)
Arrival: KZN (55.606201171875, 49.278701782227)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.