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KZO → TSE
Which side of the plane to sit from Kzyl-Orda Southwest Airport (Kzyl-Orda) to Astana International Airport (Tselinograd)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more diverse landscape, featuring the winding Syr Darya river at takeoff and the spectacular UNESCO-listed Korgalzhyn wetlands and Lake Tengiz as you approach the capital.
Syr Darya River
Visible shortly after takeoff from KZO, this vital waterway provides a stark green contrast to the surrounding arid plains.
Northern Kyzylkum Fringe
The transition zone from the red sands of the desert into the vast, open Kazakh Steppe.
Lake Tengiz
A massive, shallow salt lake known for its pink-tinted water and status as a critical habitat for migratory birds.
Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve
A sprawling UNESCO World Heritage site consisting of interconnected lakes and marshes, appearing as shimmering blue patches.
Astana Suburban Expanse
The rapid expansion of the capital is visible through the emerging infrastructure on the city's western outskirts.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the rising sun. Watch for the large salt lakes about 15-20 minutes before landing; they are the most distinctive geographic feature of this route.
Betpak-Dala Plateau
Also known as the Hungry Steppe, this region offers views of an ancient, weathered landscape with unique geological formations.
Saryarka Uplands
The rolling hills and low mountains of the Kazakh Uplands provide texture to the horizon during the mid-flight phase.
Ulytau Range
On very clear days, the distant silhouettes of the Ulytau mountains, the spiritual heart of Kazakhstan, can be seen to the west-northwest.
Astana Skyline
If the flight approaches TSE from the south or east, the right side offers a panoramic view of the Baiterek Tower and modern skyscrapers.
The right side is best for late afternoon or evening flights when the setting sun illuminates the steppe in golden hues. It is also the preferred side for viewing the dense city center if the aircraft performs a standard approach from the southeast.
Distance: 827 km (514 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: KZO (44.706902, 65.592499)
Arrival: TSE (51.02220153808594, 71.46690368652344)
Route Type: Domestic
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