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OSS → OVB
Which side of the plane to sit from Osh Airport (Osh) to Tolmachevo Airport (Novosibirsk)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the snow-capped Tien Shan mountains upon departure and the unique crescent shape of Lake Balkhash during the mid-flight phase.
Tien Shan Peaks
Dramatic, snow-capped 'Celestial Mountains' rising sharply to the east of the flight path.
Fergana Range
The rugged boundary between the Fergana Valley and the central Kyrgyz highlands.
Lake Balkhash
A massive, narrow lake in Kazakhstan known for its distinct turquoise water and semi-freshwater composition.
Betpak-Dala Desert
The 'Hungry Steppe,' showcasing incredible arid textures and geological patterns from above.
Ob River & Reservoir
The winding Ob River and the 'Ob Sea' reservoir just south of Novosibirsk during the descent.
Choose the right side for the most iconic landmarks. The Tien Shan mountains are best viewed in the first 20 minutes, while Lake Balkhash appears roughly halfway through the flight. For afternoon flights, the sun will be on the left, providing the right side with perfect 'golden hour' lighting on the mountain peaks and the Ob River.
Osh City & Sulayman Mountain
Immediate views of Kyrgyzstan's second city and its sacred UNESCO mountain right after takeoff.
Kazakh Steppe
The vast, seemingly endless plains of central Kazakhstan stretching toward the horizon.
Karatau Mountains
A rugged, ancient limestone mountain range that emerges from the desert landscape.
Novosibirsk Urban Sprawl
Clear views of the industrial and residential outskirts of Siberia's largest city on final approach.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind the plane, avoiding harsh glare on the windows. This side is better for observing the transition from the high-altitude Fergana Valley into the flat Siberian Lowlands. During winter, the landscape becomes a stark, beautiful white expanse.
Distance: 1,759 km (1,093 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 21 min
Departure: OSS (40.6090011597, 72.793296814)
Arrival: OVB (55.012599945068, 82.650703430176)
Route Type: International
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