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LBD → CEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Khudzhand Airport (Khudzhand) to Chelyabinsk Balandino Airport (Chelyabinsk)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more diverse landscape transition, featuring the ancient city of Khudzhand, the vast dunes of the Kyzylkum Desert, and the first glimpses of the Southern Ural mountain range during the descent.
Khudzhand Cityscape
Immediate views of Tajikistan's second-largest city and its historic landmarks nestled in the Fergana Valley.
Kyzylkum Desert
Expansive vistas of red sand dunes and arid basins stretching across the border of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.
Syr Darya Meanders
The intricate winding path of one of Central Asia's longest rivers as it cuts through the desert terrain.
Southern Ural Foothills
As the flight crosses into Russia, the rugged elevations of the Ural mountains begin to rise on the horizon.
Trans-Ural Steppe
The geometric patterns of agricultural fields and Russian grain belts appearing near the descent into Chelyabinsk.
Book a window seat ahead of the wing for the best views of the Kyzylkum dunes. If flying in the late afternoon, the low sun creates dramatic shadows across the desert landscape. In winter, look for the stark contrast of snow-covered steppes against the dark riverbeds.
Kayrakkum Reservoir
Known as the Tajik Sea, this massive turquoise reservoir is visible shortly after takeoff east of Khudzhand.
Betpak-Dala Steppe
A view of the 'Steppe of Misfortune,' a unique clay desert in central Kazakhstan known for its harsh, flat beauty.
Turgay Basin
A vast geographical depression in Kazakhstan featuring unique geological formations and seasonal wetlands.
Chelyabinsk Industrial Hub
Panoramic views of the massive industrial complexes and metallurgical plants that define the South Ural region.
South Ural Lake District
The region surrounding Chelyabinsk is dotted with hundreds of small tectonic lakes visible during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for seeing the Kayrakkum Reservoir immediately after takeoff. For the landing in Chelyabinsk, this side provides a better view of the city's unique 'lake district.' Morning flights offer the best lighting on this side without the glare of the setting sun.
Distance: 1,783 km (1,108 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 23 min
Departure: LBD (40.21540069580078, 69.6947021484375)
Arrival: CEK (55.305801, 61.5033)
Route Type: International
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