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KWI → MHD
Which side of the plane to sit from Kuwait International Airport (Kuwait) to Mashhad International Airport (Mashhad)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more dramatic perspective of the rugged Zagros mountain ridges and the striking geological formations of the central Iranian plateau, plus a better angle for the Mashhad approach.
Kuwait City Skyline
Aerial view of the Kuwait Towers and the rapidly developing urban coastline shortly after takeoff.
Zagros Folded Mountains
Spectacular views of the parallel limestone ridges and deep valleys that define western Iran.
Namak Lake & Salt Flats
Visuals of shimmering white salt crusts and seasonal playas in the arid central basins.
Dasht-e Kavir Edges
The northern fringes of the Great Salt Desert featuring unique wind-eroded geological patterns.
Mashhad Urban Sprawl
On descent, a sweeping view of Iran's second-largest city and the iconic gold dome of the Imam Reza Shrine.
Sit in the front half of the cabin to avoid wing obstruction of the Zagros peaks. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the mountains from the east, creating high-contrast shadows in the valleys. Keep your camera ready during the final 15 minutes of flight for the best city views.
Persian Gulf Coastline
Clear views of the turquoise waters and the industrial ports of the northern Gulf region.
Arvand Rud Delta
The lush, green marshlands where the Tigris and Euphrates meet the sea near the border.
Eastern Zagros Slopes
Views of the high-altitude plateaus and the transition from mountains to the interior desert.
Remote Desert Oases
Small clusters of green vegetation and traditional qanat irrigation systems visible in the brown landscape.
The right side is better for viewing the initial maritime geography. However, be aware that on afternoon flights, this side will face direct sun, making photography difficult due to glare. In winter, look for snow-capped peaks in the higher Zagros ranges.
Distance: 1,340 km (833 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 47 min
Departure: KWI (29.226600646972656, 47.96889877319336)
Arrival: MHD (36.235198974609375, 59.64099884033203)
Route Type: International
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