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MHD destination photo
HEA destination photo

MHDHEA

Which side of the plane to sit from Mashhad International Airport (Mashhad) to Herat Airport (Herat)?

Our Recommendation
7.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most dramatic views of the northern mountain ranges and the lush river valleys that contrast with the surrounding desert.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

Mashhad Cityscape

A grand view of the Imam Reza Shrine complex and the dense urban grid of Iran's spiritual capital.

🏔️

Binalud Mountains

Snow-capped peaks to the north that separate the Mashhad basin from the northern plains.

💧

Harirud River

The winding river valley which serves as a vital green corridor in an otherwise arid landscape.

🏜️

Afghan Foothills

Striking geological formations and colorful rock layers as you cross the international border.

⛰️

Western Hindu Kush

Distant glimpses of the rugged Paropamisus mountains stretching across western Afghanistan.

Sit on the left for the best morning light on the mountains. Since this is a very short flight of approximately 45 minutes, keep your camera ready from the moment of take-off as the aircraft stays at a lower cruise altitude.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🌾

Khorasan Steppe

The vast, golden agricultural lands of eastern Iran featuring traditional qanat irrigation patterns.

🏘️

Torbat-e Jam Area

The historic landscape surrounding this ancient Silk Road stop near the Afghan border.

🧂

Desert Salt Flats

Unique white evaporative basins that shimmer intensely under the midday sun.

🏗️

Herat Outskirts

The expanding industrial and residential zones of Herat as the aircraft descends into the valley.

The right side is excellent for observing the unique desert geography and ancient land-use patterns. Use polarized sunglasses to reduce the glare from the bright salt flats and arid plains during midday flights.

Top Activities in Herat
Route Information

Distance: 325 km (202 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 33 min

Departure: MHD (36.235198974609375, 59.64099884033203)

Arrival: HEA (34.209999084472656, 62.22829818725586)

Route Type: International

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