KJA → SKD

Sayan Mountains

Visible shortly after takeoff from Krasnoyarsk, these rugged peaks mark the transition from the Siberian taiga to the highlands.

Altai Mountains

Distant views of the high-altitude wilderness where Russia, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia meet.

Lake Balkhash

A massive crescent-shaped lake in eastern Kazakhstan, often appearing in striking shades of turquoise and blue.

Tian Shan Range

One of the world's most impressive mountain systems, featuring massive glaciers and peaks exceeding 7,000 meters.

Samarkand Approach

Views of the Zarafshan Valley and the outskirts of the ancient Silk Road city during the final descent.

Yenisei River

One of the great Siberian rivers, visible winding through the dense forest immediately after departure from KJA.

Kazakh Steppe

An endless expanse of grasslands that showcases the sheer scale and isolation of the Central Asian interior.

Kyzylkum Desert

Abstract patterns of red sands and low dunes visible as the aircraft enters Uzbek airspace.

Syr Darya River

A vital artery of life in the desert, often surrounded by a narrow ribbon of green agricultural land.

Irrigation Canals

Intricate geometric patterns of Soviet-era irrigation systems used for cotton and grain farming near the border.