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KYZ destination photo
IKT destination photo

KYZIKT

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

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side offers a spectacular view of the rugged Eastern Sayan Mountains and a direct, breathtaking approach toward the southern tip of Lake Baikal and the Angara River source.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏞️

Maly Yenisei Valley

Dramatic views of the Ka-Khem river valley carving through the mountainous terrain near Kyzyl.

🏔️

Tunkinsky Goltsy

Pass by the high, snow-capped peaks of the Eastern Sayan range, often called the 'Siberian Alps'.

💧

Lake Baikal

As the plane descends into Irkutsk, you get a premier view of the world's deepest lake near Listvyanka.

⚡

Irkutsk Hydroelectric Power Station

Look for the massive dam on the Angara River as the aircraft aligns for its final approach.

The right side is essential for the iconic Lake Baikal view. Book an afternoon flight for the best lighting on the water. In winter, the frozen surface of Baikal creates stunning patterns visible from high altitude.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏔️

Western Sayan Range

View the sharp, jagged ridges of the Western Sayan mountains shortly after takeoff from Kyzyl.

🌲

Siberian Taiga

Endless expanses of pristine, dense coniferous forests stretching toward the horizon.

🌊

Angara River

Visible as you approach Irkutsk, winding through the Siberian landscape toward the north.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and to see the deep shadows highlighting the mountain topography of the Tuva region.

Top Activities in Irkutsk
Route Information

Distance: 687 km (427 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 9 min

Departure: KYZ (51.66939926147461, 94.40059661865234)

Arrival: IKT (52.268001556396, 104.38899993896)

Route Type: Domestic

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