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MHD → XBJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Mashhad International Airport (Mashhad) to Birjand Airport (Birjand)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the dramatic transition from the urban sprawl of Mashhad to the ancient agricultural landscapes and unique geological formations of the South Khorasan province.
Mashhad Skyline
A panoramic view of the city center and potentially the golden dome of the Imam Reza Shrine during departure.
Torbat-e Heydarieh
The world's saffron capital, where purple fields are visible in late autumn below the mountain slopes.
Gonabad Qanats
Look for the distinctive circular 'chains of holes' marking the ancient underground water systems, a UNESCO heritage feature.
Kavir Edge
The vast, desolate beauty of the salt desert fringe appearing as the flight progresses south.
Bagheran Mountains
The imposing dark rock formations that signal the approach into the Birjand basin.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Dasht-e Kavir. Look closely for the ancient Qanat systems near Gonabad; they look like strings of beads from 30,000 feet. Use a window seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the distinctive 'Asbad' windmill regions isn't obstructed.
Eastern Mashhad Sprawl
Views of the Holy City's eastern residential districts and industrial zones immediately after takeoff.
Khorasan Mountains
Rugged, arid mountain ridges that define the border regions between Iran and Afghanistan.
Torbat-e Jam Plains
A patchwork of seasonal agricultural fields contrasting with the surrounding brownish desert terrain.
Eastern Highlands
Intricate erosion patterns on the high-altitude plateaus of the eastern Iranian interior.
Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the soft sunrise lighting up the mountain ridges. This side is also better for spotting the vastness of the borderlands toward the east. Keep an eye out for small salt pans that occasionally shimmer in the sunlight during the summer months.
Distance: 373 km (232 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 37 min
Departure: MHD (36.235198974609375, 59.64099884033203)
Arrival: XBJ (32.898101806640625, 59.2661018371582)
Route Type: Domestic
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