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IKT → FRU
Which side of the plane to sit from Irkutsk Airport (Irkutsk) to Manas International Airport (Bishkek)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the dramatic high-altitude landscapes of Central Asia, including the fringes of Lake Baikal upon departure, the turquoise expanse of Lake Balkhash, and the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan range during the descent into Bishkek.
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Lake Baikal
Visible shortly after takeoff from Irkutsk, offering a glimpse of the southernmost tip of the world's deepest lake.
Sayan Mountains
Dramatic views of the rugged, snow-dusted Eastern Sayan range as the flight crosses the Russian-Mongolian border region.
Lake Balkhash
A massive, uniquely shaped crescent lake in Kazakhstan, known for its distinct transition from freshwater to saltwater.
Trans-Ili Alatau
The northernmost range of the Tian Shan system, featuring jagged peaks that rise sharply above the Kazakh plains.
Issyk-Kul Lake
Depending on the specific air corridor, the sparkling blue waters of the world's second-largest alpine lake may be visible to the south.
For the most dramatic lighting, choose a morning flight where the sun illuminates the Tian Shan peaks from the east. This side also avoids direct glare for much of the southwest-bound journey. Keep your camera ready about 30 minutes before landing for the best mountain panoramas.
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Irkutsk & Angara River
A clear view of the historic 'Paris of Siberia' and the winding Angara River immediately after takeoff.
Altai Mountains
Distant views of the northern Altai peaks, characterized by deep valleys and high-altitude plateaus.
Kazakh Steppe
The vast, seemingly endless grasslands of Central Asia, showcasing the immense scale of the region's geography.
Ili River Delta
The intricate network of waterways where the Ili River feeds into the western side of Lake Balkhash.
Bishkek Outskirts
A wide view of the Chuy Valley and the industrial landscape surrounding the Kyrgyz capital during final approach.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights if you want to witness a sunset over the Kazakh Steppe. While it sees less of the high mountain peaks than the left, it provides a better perspective of the vastness of the Siberian and Central Asian plains.
Book Hotels in BishkekDistance: 2,440 km (1,516 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 15 min
Departure: IKT (52.268001556396, 104.38899993896)
Arrival: FRU (43.0612983704, 74.4776000977)
Route Type: International
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