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LED → NMA
Which side of the plane to sit from Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg) to Namangan Airport (Namangan)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the grand Russian river systems, the dramatic transition into the Kyzylkum Desert, and the spectacular oasis greenery of the Fergana Valley during the final approach.
The Volga Bend
The massive Samara Bend, where Russia's most famous river makes a sharp 180-degree turn.
Kyzylkum Desert
The 'Red Sand' desert of Uzbekistan, featuring complex dune patterns and ancient dry riverbeds.
Aral Sea Remnants
Distant views of the remaining water bodies and the vast salt-encrusted seabed of the former Aral Sea.
Syr Darya River
One of the two great rivers of Central Asia, snaking through the desert toward the Fergana Valley.
Fergana Valley Oasis
The sudden transition from arid desert to the densely populated, lush agricultural heartland of Uzbekistan.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun moves to the west, illuminating the desert landscapes. It offers the most geographically diverse views, particularly the contrast between the industrial cities of the Volga region and the nomadic heritage of the Central Asian deserts. Ensure your window is clean for the desert sunrise/sunset, which is often vivid due to atmospheric dust.
Lake Ladoga
Shortly after takeoff from Pulkovo, catch a distant view of the largest lake in Europe to the northeast.
Kazan Skyline
Aerial views of the capital of Tatarstan, where the Volga and Kazanka rivers meet.
Southern Ural Foothills
The rolling hills marking the border between Europe and Asia as the flight enters Kazakhstan.
Northern Steppes
A vast expanse of the Kazakh steppe, dotted with small alkaline lakes and seasonal salt pans.
Chatkal Mountain Range
Dramatic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Western Tien Shan as you descend into the valley.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the rising sun. This side provides the best view of the rugged mountains surrounding Namangan during the final minutes of the flight. Watch for the change in soil color from dark Russian earth to the pale yellow of the Kazakh plains.
Distance: 3,509 km (2,180 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 8 min
Departure: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)
Arrival: NMA (40.9846000671, 71.5567016602)
Route Type: International
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