Loading map...
GOJ → LBD
Which side of the plane to sit from Nizhny Novgorod Strigino International Airport (Nizhniy Novgorod) to Khudzhand Airport (Khudzhand)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Samara Bend of the Volga, the stark landscapes of the Aral Sea basin, and the spectacular Fann Mountains during the descent into Khudzhand.
Samara Bend
The iconic 180-degree turn of the Volga River, a major geographic landmark in European Russia.
Aral Sea Basin
Aerial view of the environmental remnants and the expanding Aralkum Desert where the sea once stood.
Kyzylkum Desert
Mesmerizing red sand dunes and dry riverbeds stretching across Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.
Syr Darya River
The winding 'Jaxartes' river which the flight follows closely as it nears the Fergana Valley.
Fann Mountains
Stunning, sharp-edged peaks and turquoise alpine lakes visible to the south during the final approach.
The right side is essential for seeing the most significant landmarks like the Aral Sea. During afternoon flights, be prepared for strong sunlight; however, the sunset over the desert is world-class. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing to see the Fann Mountains during descent.
Nizhny Novgorod Skyline
Panoramic views of the confluence of the Volga and Oka rivers shortly after takeoff.
Kazakh Steppe
Infinite horizons of the Central Asian plains, characterized by unique geological patterns.
Lake Shalkar
A large, shimmering saline lake in northwestern Kazakhstan that stands out against the arid soil.
Kurama Range
Rugged, snow-dusted peaks of the Western Tien Shan visible to the northeast of the flight path.
Kayrakkum Reservoir
Known as the 'Tajik Sea,' this massive artificial lake provides a brilliant blue contrast near Khudzhand.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights. This side is better for observing the vastness of the Eurasian steppe and the distant high-altitude ranges of Kyrgyzstan. Look for the transition from Russian forest-steppes to the true arid deserts of the south.
Distance: 2,590 km (1,609 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 27 min
Departure: GOJ (56.23009872436499, 43.784000396729)
Arrival: LBD (40.21540069580078, 69.6947021484375)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.