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SKD → KJA
Which side of the plane to sit from Samarkand Airport (Samarkand) to Yemelyanovo Airport (Krasnoyarsk)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular journey over the dramatic landscapes of Central Asia and Siberia, including the towering Altai Mountains and the unique crescent shape of Lake Balkhash.
Tian Shan Peaks
Distant but majestic views of the 'Heavenly Mountains' along the Kyrgyz border shortly after takeoff.
Lake Balkhash
One of Asia's largest lakes, famous for its distinct crescent shape and varying water salinity levels.
Altai Mountains
Stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and glaciers where Russia, China, and Mongolia converge.
Sayan Mountains
Rugged, forested mountain ranges that signal your entry into the heart of the Siberian wilderness.
Yenisei River
The powerful Yenisei River comes into view during the descent into Krasnoyarsk, one of the world's great waterways.
The right side is the clear winner for scenic variety. Try to book a morning flight to see the Altai Mountains catching the early sunlight. Keep a sharp eye out midway through the flight for the turquoise waters of Lake Balkhash. During the final descent into KJA, the Yenisei River valley provides a dramatic welcome to Krasnoyarsk.
Kyzylkum Desert Edges
View the northern fringes of the red sand desert shortly after departing Samarkand.
Karaganda Industrial Hub
Spot the sprawling urban grid of one of Kazakhstan's major industrial and mining centers.
Saryarka Steppe
A vast expanse of golden grasslands and low hills designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Irtysh River Crossing
The meandering path of one of the longest rivers in Asia as it flows toward the Arctic.
Siberian Taiga
The transition from dry steppe to the dense, dark green evergreen forests of Southern Russia.
Sit on the left if you prefer viewing the vast, open horizons of the Kazakh Steppe. This side is particularly good for photography during late afternoon flights as the sun will be behind the plane, illuminating the ground clearly without glare. Look for the geometric patterns of industrial agriculture in Northern Kazakhstan.
Distance: 2,611 km (1,622 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 29 min
Departure: SKD (39.70050048828125, 66.98380279541016)
Arrival: KJA (56.172901, 92.493301)
Route Type: International
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