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MHD → KBL
Which side of the plane to sit from Mashhad International Airport (Mashhad) to Hamid Karzai International Airport (Kabul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic, snow-capped peaks of the Hindu Kush and the Koh-i-Baba ranges, which dominate the northern horizon throughout the flight.
Mashhad Urban Expanse
Detailed views of Mashhad's sprawling layout and the surrounding Razavi Khorasan hills during initial climb.
Hari River Border
The winding Hari River marks the fertile boundary between Iran and Afghanistan near the Islam Qala crossing.
Koh-i-Baba Range
Stunning vistas of the western Hindu Kush extension with peaks reaching over 5,000 meters.
Bamyan Foothills
The rugged northern terrain leading toward the historic Bamyan province, characterized by deep valleys.
Paghman Mountains
Sharp, jagged mountain ridges that rise sharply to the west of Kabul as the plane begins its final descent.
For the best visibility, choose a morning flight when the sun is behind you, illuminating the northern mountain faces. Aim for a seat in front of the wing to capture the scale of the Hindu Kush peaks without engine obstruction. During winter, the snow cover on these peaks is particularly photogenic.
Khorasan Desert
The arid, red-toned landscapes of eastern Iran featuring unique wind-eroded geological formations.
Herat Hinterlands
The vast plateaus and ancient trade routes surrounding the historic city of Herat to the south.
Central Highlands
A bird's-eye view of the remote, high-altitude Hazarajat region with its isolated mountain villages.
Wardak River Valleys
Lush green strips of agriculture carved into the dry mountain landscape as the flight enters the Kabul region.
Kabul Southern Approach
Views of the Logar valley and the expanding southern suburbs of Kabul during the landing pattern.
The right side is excellent for observing the vast, desolate beauty of the Afghan central highlands. If flying in the late afternoon, be prepared for significant sun glare; however, this side offers spectacular sunset views over the Iranian desert during the return leg.
Distance: 887 km (551 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: MHD (36.235198974609375, 59.64099884033203)
Arrival: KBL (34.565899, 69.212303)
Route Type: International
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