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NMAOVB

Which side of the plane to sit from Namangan Airport (Namangan) to Tolmachevo Airport (Novosibirsk)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the high Tian Shan peaks early in the flight and provides the best vantage point for the massive, turquoise expanse of Lake Balkhash.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

High Tian Shan

Immediately after takeoff, witness the snow-capped summits of the 'Heavenly Mountains' bordering Kyrgyzstan.

🌊

Lake Balkhash

A spectacular view of this massive, crescent-shaped lake, famous for its half-fresh and half-salty water composition.

🏞️

Altai Foothills

In the distance to the east, the rugged edges of the Altai Mountains may be visible on clear days.

💧

Ob Reservoir

Known as the 'Ob Sea,' this massive body of water marks the final approach into Novosibirsk.

🚢

Ob River Meanders

Intricate water patterns and river traffic near the heart of Siberia's largest city.

Choose the right side for morning departures to see the sun illuminate the mountain peaks. Lake Balkhash is the star attraction here; it typically appears 45-60 minutes into the flight. In winter, the frozen patterns on the Ob Reservoir are particularly photogenic during the descent.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
⛰️

Chatkal Mountain Range

Dramatic views of the western Tian Shan ridges as you climb out of the Fergana Valley.

🌾

Saryarka Steppe

The vast, undulating grasslands of central Kazakhstan, showcasing the sheer scale of the Central Asian interior.

🏙️

Karaganda Skyline

The industrial layout and urban sprawl of one of Kazakhstan's major mining hubs.

🌲

Siberian Forest Edge

The distinct transition where the dry steppe gives way to the dense green taiga of the Novosibirsk region.

The left side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. It offers better views of the sunset when flying northward during the late hours. Keep your camera ready for the sudden change in vegetation as you cross the Russian border.

Top Activities in Novosibirsk
Route Information

Distance: 1,760 km (1,094 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 21 min

Departure: NMA (40.9846000671, 71.5567016602)

Arrival: OVB (55.012599945068, 82.650703430176)

Route Type: International

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