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KZO → KGF
Which side of the plane to sit from Kzyl-Orda Southwest Airport (Kzyl-Orda) to Sary-Arka Airport (Karaganda)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the winding Syr Darya river upon departure and more dramatic geological transitions as you enter the Kazakh Uplands near Karaganda.
Syr Darya River
A stunning view of one of Central Asia's longest rivers as it meanders through the arid plains immediately after takeoff.
Ancient Caravan Routes
Trace the faint lines of historic nomadic paths and trade routes that cut through the heart of the Betpak-Dala desert.
Saryarka Rock Formations
As you approach Karaganda, notice the ancient granite outcrops and low hills of the Kazakh Uplands emerging from the flat terrain.
Karaganda Industrial Basin
View the massive coal mines and industrial complexes that define the economy of the 'Coal Capital' during the final descent.
The right side is best for morning flights as the sun illuminates the hills of the Kazakh Uplands. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the river crossing, and look for the transition from desert yellow to upland grey-green near the end of the flight.
Kzyl-Orda Cityscape
Bird's-eye view of the city's grid layout and the contrast between urban development and the surrounding desert.
Betpak-Dala Horizon
The vast, uninterrupted expanse of the Hungry Steppe stretching northwest toward the Aral Sea basin.
Ulytau Distant Peaks
On clear days, the silhouette of the Ulytau mountains, a site of immense historical significance for the Kazakh people, appears to the north.
Salt Flats
Occasional white patches of dried salt lakes that create geometric patterns against the earthy tones of the steppe.
Sit on the left for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. This side provides a better sense of the sheer scale of the Central Asian steppe. Watch for the 'Golden Eagle' migration patterns if flying during seasonal shifts.
Distance: 804 km (500 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: KZO (44.706902, 65.592499)
Arrival: KGF (49.670799255371094, 73.33439636230469)
Route Type: Domestic
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