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MHD → HEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Mashhad International Airport (Mashhad) to Herat Airport (Herat)?
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.
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.
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.
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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