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IKT destination photo
HRB destination photo

IKTHRB

Which side of the plane to sit from Irkutsk Airport (Irkutsk) to Taiping Airport (Harbin)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides an unparalleled view of Lake Baikal, the world's deepest lake, immediately after takeoff from Irkutsk, followed by the rugged Yablonovy Mountains.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌊

Lake Baikal

Spectacular views of the world's largest freshwater lake by volume, visible shortly after departure.

🏔️

Yablonovy Range

Stunning aerial perspectives of the mountain range that separates the Arctic and Pacific watersheds.

🌲

Siberian Taiga

An endless carpet of dense coniferous forest stretching toward the horizon.

💧

Songhua River Meanders

Ornate river patterns and wetlands as the flight descends into the Manchurian plain.

For the best experience, book a seat on the left side (Seat A) to see the vast expanse of Lake Baikal right after takeoff. Morning flights are ideal as the sun rises to the east, casting long shadows across the Siberian ridges and highlighting the crystalline textures of the lake in winter.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
⛰️

Khamar-Daban Mountains

Dramatic snow-capped peaks bordering the southern edge of Lake Baikal.

🌾

Hulunbuir Grasslands

The vast, golden-green steppes of Inner Mongolia, known for their nomadic heritage.

⛰️

Greater Khingan Range

The forested slopes of this major mountain range in Northeast China.

🏙️

Harbin Cityscape

The sprawling 'Ice City' of Harbin becomes visible as the plane maneuvers for landing.

The right side is excellent for viewing the southern mountain fringes of Siberia and the transition into the flat agricultural lands of Heilongjiang. During late afternoon flights, the sunset over the grasslands of Inner Mongolia offers a beautiful golden hue across the cabin.

Top Activities in Harbin
Route Information

Distance: 1,750 km (1,087 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 20 min

Departure: IKT (52.268001556396, 104.38899993896)

Arrival: HRB (45.6234016418457, 126.25)

Route Type: International

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