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GUW destination photo
AMS destination photo

GUW β†’ AMS

Which side of the plane to sit from Atyrau Airport (Atyrau) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam)?

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side offers superior views of the Caspian Sea coastline upon departure and the varied mountain ranges of Central Europe, generally enjoying more favorable lighting for photography on this westbound route.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Caspian Sea Coast

Stunning views of the shallow turquoise waters and the unique salt flats of the northern Caspian shore shortly after takeoff.

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Carpathian Mountains

The rugged, forested peaks of the Carpathians are visible as the flight crosses from Eastern into Central Europe.

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Central European Valleys

Dense clusters of historic European towns and the winding paths of the Danube river system.

🌾

Dutch Polders

The intricate, geometric patterns of reclaimed land and dikes characteristic of the Netherlands during the descent.

🚒

Port of Rotterdam

On clear days during the final approach, the massive shipping infrastructure and wind farms of the Dutch coast are visible.

Sit on the left for the best morning light; the sun will be behind you or to the south, illuminating the landscape without heavy glare. Watch the ground closely about 15-20 minutes after departure for the Ural River delta. On approach to AMS, the left side typically offers a better view of the North Sea coastline if the plane is landing from the south.

Right Side Highlights
7.6
🐍

Ural River

Direct views of the winding Ural River, traditionally considered the boundary between Europe and Asia.

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Volga River Delta

The massive, labyrinthine delta of the Volga River as it empties into the Caspian Sea.

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Berlin Metropolitan Area

The sprawling urban landscape of the German capital is often visible to the north mid-flight.

🏭

The Ruhr Valley

Germany's industrial heartland, characterized by a dense network of cities, factories, and railways.

🏝️

West Frisian Islands

A chain of islands along the Dutch coast visible if the flight takes a more northerly approach into Schiphol.

The right side is excellent for observing the transition from the vast, empty Kazakh steppes into the densely populated European heartland. During late afternoon flights, this side will catch the golden hour and sunset over the North Sea as you approach Amsterdam. Use a polarising filter if taking photos to manage the haze over the Russian plains.

Top Activities in Amsterdam
Route Information

Distance: 3,370 km (2,094 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 58 min

Departure: GUW (47.12189865112305, 51.8213996887207)

Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)

Route Type: International

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