Loading map...
PWQ → TSE
Which side of the plane to sit from Pavlodar Airport (Pavlodar) to Astana International Airport (Tselinograd)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a front-row seat to the massive Ekibastuz coal mines and generally offers a more direct view of the iconic Astana skyline and the glass EXPO sphere during the southern approach.
Search flights from PWQ to TSE
Irtysh River Bend
Immediately after takeoff, witness the wide, winding Irtysh River as it flows north through Pavlodar.
Bogatyr Coal Mine
Mid-flight, look for the world's largest open-cast coal mine near Ekibastuz, visible as a massive tiered excavation.
Saryarka Steppe
Expansive views of the Kazakh Uplands, showing the transition from flat plains to rolling hillocks.
Nur Alem Sphere
As the plane descends into Astana, the massive glass sphere from EXPO 2017 is often visible on the left.
Astana Financial District
Stunning views of the modern skyline, including the Talan Towers and the Abu Dhabi Plaza.
Choose the left side for evening flights to catch the sunset over the steppe. The mining pits at Ekibastuz are best seen approximately 15-20 minutes into the flight; look for the distinct grey and black tiered terrain. During landing, this side typically faces the heart of the new city center.
Get eSIMs for Kazakhstan
Get eSIMs for Kazakhstan
Pavlodar Industrial Hub
View the massive aluminum and oil refinery complexes that define the northern edge of Pavlodar.
Ereymentau Mountains
Low-lying granite ridges and rocky outcrops that break the monotony of the steppe horizon.
Steppe Salt Lakes
Numerous small, seasonal endorheic lakes that often change color depending on the mineral content and season.
Astana Arena
On final approach, you may see the northern residential districts and the distinctive retractable roof of the national stadium.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. Keep an eye out for the parallel Astana-Pavlodar highway, which serves as a navigational landmark throughout the short journey. Look for seasonal water patterns in the steppe lakes during spring thaw.
Book Hotels in TselinogradDistance: 408 km (254 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 41 min
Departure: PWQ (52.19499969482422, 77.07389831542969)
Arrival: TSE (51.02220153808594, 71.46690368652344)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.