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IKT destination photo
OVB destination photo

IKT β†’ OVB

Which side of the plane to sit from Irkutsk Airport (Irkutsk) to Tolmachevo Airport (Novosibirsk)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the Yenisei River crossing, the urban landscape of Krasnoyarsk, and the expansive taiga of the Central Siberian Plateau.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏘️

Irkutsk Cityscape

Aerial views of the historic 'Paris of Siberia' and the winding Angara River shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Yenisei River Crossing

A spectacular view of one of the world's longest rivers as the flight passes near Krasnoyarsk.

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Krasnoyarsk City

Detailed views of the industrial and residential heart of Central Siberia mid-way through the route.

πŸ—ΊοΈ

Ob-Yenisei Watershed

The geographic transition zone between two of Russia's most significant river basins.

🌊

Ob River Delta

Dramatic views of the wide, meandering Ob River and the Novosibirsk Reservoir during the descent.

This side is optimal for morning flights as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the Yenisei and Ob rivers perfectly. The Yenisei crossing occurs roughly 45-55 minutes into the flight; have your camera ready for the contrast between the blue water and the surrounding green or white landscape.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
πŸ”οΈ

Western Sayan Mountains

Distant views of the snow-capped Sayan mountain range stretching along the southern horizon.

🌊

Krasnoyarsk Reservoir

The vast expanse of the 'Krasnoyarsk Sea' created by one of the world's largest hydroelectric dams.

🌲

Southern Siberian Taiga

Dense, unbroken stretches of evergreen forests that define the rugged Siberian wilderness.

🚜

Agricultural Transition

The shift from dense forest to the fertile, organized agricultural plots of the Kuznetsk Basin.

Choose this side for late afternoon flights to enjoy a sunset over the horizon. Keep an eye out for the Sayan peaks particularly during winter months when their snow cover makes them much more visible against the dark forest floor.

Top Activities in Novosibirsk
Route Information

Distance: 1,459 km (907 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 57 min

Departure: IKT (52.268001556396, 104.38899993896)

Arrival: OVB (55.012599945068, 82.650703430176)

Route Type: Domestic

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