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GDX → IKT
Which side of the plane to sit from Sokol Airport (Magadan) to Irkutsk Airport (Irkutsk)?
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.
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.
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.
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
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