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MJZ destination photo
PYJ destination photo

MJZPYJ

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

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer views of massive diamond mines, the Right Side is preferred for the final approach into Polyarny, providing a direct perspective of the Udachnaya pipe, one of the deepest man-made holes on Earth.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
💧

Vilyuy River System

Glimpse the winding tributaries and complex water networks that feed into the massive Vilyuy Reservoir.

🏔️

Siberian Wilderness

Expansive views of the pristine and uninhabited wilderness of the Sakha Republic.

🏗️

Udachny Settlement

The remote industrial town of Udachny appears as a lonely outpost in the vast permafrost desert.

⛏️

Udachnaya Pipe

A spectacular view of the colossal Udachnaya diamond mine located just north of the Polyarny Airport during descent.

The Right Side is essential for the arrival sequence. The Udachnaya pipe is located very close to the airport; watch for the transition from wilderness to heavy industrial mining equipment. In summer, the 24-hour daylight allows for great views even on late-night flights.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
💎

Mir Diamond Mine

Immediately after takeoff from MJZ, view the world-famous Mirny open-pit mine, a 525-meter deep vortex.

🌲

Vilyuy Plateau

Cross the rugged terrain of the Siberian taiga, characterized by dense larch forests and rolling hills.

❄️

Thermokarst Lakes

Observe the unique permafrost landscape dotted with thousands of small, shallow thaw lakes.

Sit on the left for the most iconic view of the Mir Mine vortex right after takeoff. Due to the high latitude, the sun remains low on the horizon for much of the year; in winter, expect very short daylight hours, so book mid-day flights for visibility.

Top Activities in Yakutia
Route Information

Distance: 440 km (273 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 44 min

Departure: MJZ (62.53469848632813, 114.03900146484376)

Arrival: PYJ (66.4003982544, 112.029998779)

Route Type: Domestic

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