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HRB → IKT
Which side of the plane to sit from Taiping Airport (Harbin) to Irkutsk Airport (Irkutsk)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is significantly superior for this route as it offers the most direct and expansive views of Lake Baikal, the world's deepest lake, during the descent into Irkutsk.
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Greater Khingan Range
Fly over the dense larch and birch forests of this major volcanic mountain range in Northeast China.
Selenga River Delta
A complex network of waterways and wetlands where the Selenga River empties into Lake Baikal.
Lake Baikal
The 'Pearl of Siberia' appears as a massive, deep blue crescent, often featuring whitecaps or ice patterns.
Khamar-Daban Mountains
Rugged, snow-capped peaks lining the southern shore of Lake Baikal, providing a dramatic backdrop.
Siberian Taiga
Endless stretches of pristine coniferous forest that characterize the remote landscape of Buryatia.
The right side is a must for seeing Lake Baikal. In winter (Jan-Mar), look for the incredible turquoise ice and cracks on the lake surface. For the best photography, aim for a morning flight when the sun illuminates the eastern shores of the lake and the Khamar-Daban mountains. Ensure your window is clean as the descent over the lake provides one of the most scenic views in North Asia.
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Harbin Skyline
Aerial view of the 'Ice City' and the sprawling urban layout of Harbin shortly after takeoff.
Inner Mongolian Steppes
Vast stretches of high-altitude grasslands and rolling plains transitioning into the Russian border.
Angara River Valley
The scenic valley of the only river that flows out of Lake Baikal, visible during the final approach.
Irkutsk City Center
Views of the historic Siberian city and its unique wooden architecture as the plane aligns for landing.
Choose the left side if you are flying in the late afternoon to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side offers better views of the urban sprawl of Harbin and the winding Angara River just before landing in Irkutsk. Keep an eye out for the distinct transition from Chinese agriculture to Siberian wilderness.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for RussiaDistance: 1,750 km (1,087 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 20 min
Departure: HRB (45.6234016418457, 126.25)
Arrival: IKT (52.268001556396, 104.38899993896)
Route Type: International
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