Loading map...

GDX destination photo
IKT destination photo

GDXIKT

Which side of the plane to sit from Sokol Airport (Magadan) to Irkutsk Airport (Irkutsk)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the most dramatic landscapes, including the rugged Kolyma Mountains and a spectacular descent alongside the eastern shores of Lake Baikal.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🌊

Taui Bay Coastline

Dramatic views of the Sea of Okhotsk shoreline immediately after takeoff from Magadan.

🏔️

Kolyma Mountains

Sharp, snow-capped ridges and deep valleys of the Far Eastern mountain systems.

🏞️

Barguzin Range

The high alpine peaks bordering the eastern edge of Lake Baikal.

💧

Lake Baikal

The world's deepest lake, visible as a vast expanse of deep blue during the final hour of flight.

🏝️

Olkhon Island

The iconic largest island of Baikal, known for its sacred Shaman Rock and diverse terrain.

Sit on the left for the best views of Lake Baikal. During morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing excellent lighting for photos of the mountain ranges. Look out roughly 45 minutes before landing for the first glimpse of the lake's eastern shore.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌲

Yakutian Taiga

The endless, untouched coniferous forests stretching toward the Arctic Circle.

🛶

Lena River Tributaries

Intricate patterns of frozen or flowing rivers snaking through the Siberian wilderness.

🌋

Patom Highlands

A remote and mysterious mountainous area featuring the unique Patomskiy crater.

🏗️

Angara River Valley

Views of the industrial outskirts and the river that drains Lake Baikal during the final approach.

The right side is ideal if you prefer vast, minimalist wilderness and river patterns. It is typically the 'shady side' on westbound flights during midday, reducing glare on the window. Watch for the massive Lena River crossings midway through the journey.

Top Activities in Irkutsk
Route Information

Distance: 2,929 km (1,820 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 54 min

Departure: GDX (59.9109992980957, 150.72000122070312)

Arrival: IKT (52.268001556396, 104.38899993896)

Route Type: Domestic

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