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SHJ → ALA
Which side of the plane to sit from Sharjah International Airport (Sharjah) to Almaty Airport (Alma-ata)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers unparalleled views of the rugged Hajar Mountains after takeoff and the towering, snow-capped Tien Shan mountains during the descent into Almaty.
Hajar Mountains
The dark, jagged peaks of the Hajar range stretching across the UAE-Oman border visible within minutes of departure.
Dasht-e Lut
The 'Loot Desert', famous for its massive yardangs and some of the hottest recorded temperatures on Earth.
Kopet Dag Range
The formidable mountain border between Iran and Turkmenistan, featuring steep limestone ridges and deep valleys.
Trans-Ili Alatau
Stunning, permanent snow-capped peaks of the northern Tien Shan range that frame the city of Almaty.
Shymbulak and Medeu
In clear weather, you can spot the high-altitude ski resort and skating rink nestled in the mountains south of the city.
Sit on the right side for the most iconic views of the Almaty skyline against the backdrop of the massive Tien Shan mountains. Morning flights offer the best lighting for photography, as the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the Iranian and Kazakh ranges. During winter, look for the completely frozen surfaces of high-altitude lakes.
Sharjah and Ajman
Clear views of the urban coastal landscape and the blue waters of the Persian Gulf shortly after takeoff.
Central Zagros
Aerial perspective of the dramatic folded mountain belts across western and central Iran.
Dasht-e Kavir
The Great Salt Desert of Iran, showcasing vast white salt crusts and unique geological swirls.
Kyzylkum Desert
Expansive red sand dunes and desolate steppe landscapes of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.
Kapchagay Reservoir
A massive man-made lake on the Ili River, visible on the left side during the final descent into Almaty.
Select a left-side window for late afternoon flights to witness the sun setting over the Iranian deserts. This side provides excellent views of the vast Aral Sea basin if the flight path tracks slightly further west. Avoid this side during mid-day to reduce direct glare from the sun.
Distance: 2,798 km (1,739 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 44 min
Departure: SHJ (25.32859992980957, 55.5172004699707)
Arrival: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Route Type: International
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