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NMA → CEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Namangan Airport (Namangan) to Chelyabinsk Balandino Airport (Chelyabinsk)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a more dramatic perspective of the Western Tien Shan mountains immediately after departure and provides a better view of the distinctive lake district surrounding Chelyabinsk during the approach.
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Chatkal Mountains
Breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Western Tien Shan range shortly after takeoff.
Namangan Cityscape
A clear aerial overview of the city's urban sprawl and the surrounding satellite towns.
Kazakh Uplands
The undulating terrain of Saryarka, featuring ancient, eroded mountain remnants in central Kazakhstan.
Steppe Lakes
Isolated seasonal lakes that dot the landscape of northern Kazakhstan.
Chelyabinsk Lake District
A dense cluster of blue lakes, including Smolino and Sineglazovo, visible during the final descent.
Sit on the right side for the most impressive mountain views within the first 20 minutes of flight. Morning flights are ideal as the rising sun illuminates the eastern slopes of the Chatkal range. Keep your camera ready during the descent into CEK to capture the 'Blue Necklace' of lakes around the city.
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Fergana Valley Plains
Intricate patterns of agricultural fields and irrigation canals surrounding Namangan.
Syr Darya Meanders
The winding path of Central Asia's second-longest river as it flows northwest.
Kyzylkum Periphery
The stark transition from the fertile valley to the arid red sand desert landscapes.
Trans-Aral Infrastructure
Sections of the historic railway lines cutting through the vast Kazakh steppe.
Southern Ural Rise
The subtle emergence of the Ural mountain system as the flight enters Russian airspace.
Watch the ground carefully during the first 15 minutes to see the contrast between the green Fergana Valley and the arid lands to the north. For afternoon flights, this side will have less direct sun glare, making it easier to spot the glint of the Syr Darya river.
Get eSIMs for Uzbekistan
Get eSIMs for RussiaDistance: 1,754 km (1,090 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 20 min
Departure: NMA (40.9846000671, 71.5567016602)
Arrival: CEK (55.305801, 61.5033)
Route Type: International
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