Loading map...

OSS destination photo
KUF destination photo

OSSKUF

Which side of the plane to sit from Osh Airport (Osh) to Kurumoch International Airport (Samara)?

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most dramatic geographic transitions, featuring the snow-capped Pamir-Alay range at departure, the Aral Sea basin mid-flight, and the scenic Volga River Samara Bend upon arrival.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏔️

Pamir-Alay Mountains

Stunning views of the high-altitude rugged peaks south of Osh shortly after takeoff.

🏜️

Kyzylkum Desert

Vast stretches of reddish-brown sand dunes and arid landscapes across Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.

💧

Aral Sea Basin

A unique aerial perspective of the receding shoreline and the North Aral Sea's blue waters.

🌊

Ural River

Cross the traditional boundary between Asia and Europe, visible as a winding silver ribbon.

🏙️

Samara Bend (Volga)

The dramatic loop of the Volga River around the Zhiguli Mountains during the descent into Samara.

Book a window seat forward of the wing for the best mountain photography. On morning flights, the sun will be behind you, highlighting the textures of the Kyzylkum desert. Watch for the Volga River approximately 20 minutes before landing for the best views of the regional landscape.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏔️

Tien Shan Peaks

Distant views of the massive 'Heavenly Mountains' extending toward the northern horizon.

🌿

Fergana Valley

A lush green patchwork of agricultural fields and ancient settlements in the heart of Central Asia.

🌾

Kazakh Steppe

An endless golden horizon of the Great Steppe, showing unique geological formations and salt pans.

⛰️

Mugodzhar Hills

The low-lying southern tail of the Ural Mountains appearing as rocky ripples in the steppe.

🌲

Samara Forests

The transition into the more temperate forest-steppe zone of Russia as you approach Kurumoch.

The right side is ideal for evening flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. It offers a more expansive view of the Central Asian interior. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to spot the distant high peaks of the northern Tien Shan shortly after leaving Kyrgyz airspace.

Top Activities in Samara
Route Information

Distance: 2,218 km (1,378 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 57 min

Departure: OSS (40.6090011597, 72.793296814)

Arrival: KUF (53.504901885986, 50.16429901123)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.