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MZR → KBL
Which side of the plane to sit from Mazar I Sharif Airport (Mazar-i-sharif) to Hamid Karzai International Airport (Kabul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the most dramatic peaks of the Hindu Kush and the lush valleys leading into the Kabul basin.
Blue Mosque (Mazar)
Catch a glimpse of the Shrine of Hazrat Ali shortly after takeoff from MZR.
Hindu Kush Core
Soaring views of the central mountain range with jagged, snow-capped peaks.
Salang Pass
Observe the critical mountain pass that serves as the main artery between North and South Afghanistan.
Panjshir Foothills
As the plane descends, view the dramatic entrance to the legendary Panjshir Valley to the east.
Sit on the left for morning flights to have the sun behind you, illuminating the mountains. The flight is short, so keep your window shade up from the moment you reach cruising altitude. Watch for the dramatic change from the flat northern plains to vertical mountain walls about 15 minutes after takeoff.
Balkh Plains
Expansive views of the ancient, arid plains surrounding the historic city of Balkh.
Koh-i-Baba Range
Vistas of the western extensions of the Hindu Kush range throughout the flight.
Samangan Valleys
The rugged, carved landscapes of the Samangan province, known for its Buddhist history.
Paghman Mountains
Dense mountain ridges near Kabul that glow orange during sunset flights.
The right side is excellent for late afternoon or sunset flights to capture the 'golden hour' over the central highlands. It offers a broader perspective of the vastness of the Afghan interior. Be prepared for occasional turbulence as the aircraft crosses the high ridges before descending into the Kabul bowl.
Distance: 299 km (186 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 30 min
Departure: MZR (36.70690155029297, 67.20970153808594)
Arrival: KBL (34.565899, 69.212303)
Route Type: Domestic
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