Loading map...
SHJ → CIT
Which side of the plane to sit from Sharjah International Airport (Sharjah) to Shymkent Airport (Chimkent)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic Al Hajar mountains upon departure and the majestic, often snow-capped foothills of the Western Tien Shan range during the final approach into Shymkent.
Al Hajar Mountains
Rugged, dark limestone peaks of the Musandam Peninsula visible as the flight turns north.
Strait of Hormuz
A high-altitude view of the narrow waterway and the heavy maritime traffic entering the Persian Gulf.
Mount Damavand
On clear days, the distant snow-capped cone of Iran's highest peak may be visible to the north-northeast.
Western Tien Shan
Breath-taking views of the snow-covered Karatau and Ugam ranges as the plane descends into Kazakhstan.
Southern Steppe
The transition from the Kyzylkum Desert to the irrigated green agricultural belts surrounding Shymkent.
The right side is ideal for mountain photography. Be aware that on morning flights, the sun will be on this side of the aircraft; use a polarising filter for photos to cut through the haze over the Zagros mountains.
Sharjah & Dubai Skyline
Panoramic views of the UAE coastline and the iconic Burj Khalifa visible in the distance shortly after takeoff.
Central Zagros Ridges
Observation of the incredible folded mountain structures and deep valleys of central Iran.
Dasht-e Kavir
The Great Salt Desert of Iran, featuring surreal white salt crusts and unique geological swirls.
Amu Darya River
The historical Oxus river winding its way through the arid landscapes of the Uzbekistan border.
Select this side for the best views of the Persian Gulf coastline. For evening flights, you will witness spectacular sunsets over the Iranian plateau, though midday flights offer the best clarity for the desert's salt patterns.
Distance: 2,285 km (1,420 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 3 min
Departure: SHJ (25.32859992980957, 55.5172004699707)
Arrival: CIT (42.364200592041016, 69.47889709472656)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.