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MJZ destination photo
IKT destination photo

MJZIKT

Which side of the plane to sit from Mirny Airport (Mirnyj) to Irkutsk Airport (Irkutsk)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the breathtaking expanse of Lake Baikal, the world's deepest lake, along with a spectacular view of the Mir diamond mine immediately after takeoff.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
💎

Mir Diamond Mine

A colossal open-pit mine, one of the largest excavated holes in the world, visible just south of Mirny airport.

🌊

Lena River Basin

Aerial views of the winding tributaries and vast floodplains of the majestic Lena River system.

🏔️

Baikal Mountains

Rugged, snow-capped peaks that line the western shore of Lake Baikal as you approach Irkutsk.

💧

Lake Baikal

The undisputed highlight, offering views of the deep blue water and the dramatic shoreline of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

🏝️

Olkhon Island

Depending on the flight path, the sacred and geographically diverse largest island of Baikal may be visible.

Secure a window seat on the left for the departure to see the 'Mir' mine. As you approach Irkutsk from the north, the descent usually tracks parallel to the Baikal shoreline. In winter, look for the unique turquoise ice patterns and pressure ridges on the lake surface. Morning flights provide the best illumination for the lake without the glare of the afternoon sun.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🌲

Endless Taiga

Stunning views of the dense, untouched Siberian boreal forest stretching to the horizon.

🛶

Vilyuy River

Views of the Vilyuy River snaking through the plateau with its distinct dark waters.

🌊

Angara River

The powerful river that flows out of Lake Baikal, visible during the final descent into Irkutsk.

🏗️

Irkutsk Dam

A massive hydroelectric structure visible on the Angara River as the plane lines up for the runway.

🏙️

Irkutsk Skyline

A panoramic view of the 'Paris of Siberia' featuring its historic wooden houses and modern districts.

The right side is ideal for travelers who appreciate the vast, rhythmic patterns of the Siberian wilderness. It offers a great perspective of the Irkutsk city layout and the Angara River during the landing sequence. If the flight is in the late afternoon, this side may experience significant sun glare, so bring sunglasses or keep the shade partially down.

Top Activities in Irkutsk
Route Information

Distance: 1,276 km (793 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min

Departure: MJZ (62.53469848632813, 114.03900146484376)

Arrival: IKT (52.268001556396, 104.38899993896)

Route Type: Domestic

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