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NER → IKT
Which side of the plane to sit from Chulman Airport (Neryungri) to Irkutsk Airport (Irkutsk)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point for viewing the vast expanse of Lake Baikal and the dramatic Barguzin Mountain Range during the descent into Irkutsk.
Lake Baikal
The world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake, appearing as a massive inland sea of deep blue or crystalline ice.
Barguzin Range
Sharp, alpine-style peaks that rise steeply from the eastern shores of Lake Baikal.
Vitim River
A powerful Siberian river carving deep canyons through the Vitim Plateau early in the flight.
Olkhon Island
The largest island in Lake Baikal, known for its sacred Shaman Rock, often visible depending on the flight corridor.
Angara River Source
The point where the Angara River leaves Lake Baikal, marked by the Shaman Stone near Listvyanka.
The right side is the clear winner for Lake Baikal views. For the best lighting, choose an afternoon flight so the sun illuminates the lake from the west while you look north/northwest. In winter (Jan-Mar), look for the incredible turquoise ice patterns and pressure ridges on the lake's surface.
Stanovoy Range
View the rugged, ancient peaks marking the border between the Amur Basin and the Lena Basin.
Trans-Baikal Taiga
An endless sea of dark coniferous forest stretching across the Zabaikalsky Krai territory.
Selenga River Delta
The intricate, braided channels of Baikal's largest tributary as it enters the lake from the south.
Khamar-Daban Mountains
Snow-capped ridges that dominate the southern shore of Lake Baikal, visible during the final approach.
Sit on this side for better views of the southern mountain ridges. In the morning, this side will be shaded, making it easier to take photos without window glare. Watch for the dramatic change in terrain as the taiga meets the Selenga highlands.
Distance: 1,413 km (878 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 53 min
Departure: NER (56.913898468018, 124.91400146484)
Arrival: IKT (52.268001556396, 104.38899993896)
Route Type: Domestic
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