Loading map...
SVO → ALA
Which side of the plane to sit from Sheremetyevo International Airport (Moscow) to Almaty Airport (Alma-ata)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer views of the vast Kazakh steppe, the Right Side is the clear winner for the spectacular approach into Almaty, providing a front-row seat to the towering, snow-capped Trans-Ili Alatau mountains.
Search flights from SVO to ALA
Oka River
Beautiful winding segments of the Oka River visible during the initial climb out of the Moscow region.
Kyzylkum Desert
Arid vistas and dramatic sand dunes of the southern desert regions visible during the mid-flight segment.
Tian Shan Range
The 'Heavenly Mountains' rise dramatically from the flat plains as you approach the Kyrgyz border.
Trans-Ili Alatau
Stunning views of jagged, snow-covered peaks exceeding 4,000 meters just before landing.
Medeu and Shymbulak
Glimpses of the famous high-altitude ice rink and ski resort nestled in the mountain valleys near Almaty.
This is the 'mountain side'. For the most dramatic experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Tian Shan range during the descent. The mountains appear suddenly and stay in view for the final 20 minutes of the flight. In winter, the contrast between the white peaks and the city basin is particularly photogenic.
Book Hotels in Alma-ata
Moscow Exit
Bird's-eye view of the northern Moscow suburbs and the vast Khimki forest park shortly after takeoff.
Volga River Bend
The massive Volga River is visible as the flight path crosses the heart of western Russia.
Central Kazakh Steppe
Infinite horizons of the world's largest dry steppe region with unique agricultural patterns.
Lake Balkhash
Depending on the specific airway, the distinct turquoise waters of this massive crescent-shaped lake appear to the north.
Industrial Landscapes
Views of the industrial layouts and mining operations near the city of Karaganda.
The left side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun glare. It offers the best chance to see Lake Balkhash, which is a rare geographic treat. Look for the contrast between the green Russian forests and the sudden transition to the arid brown tones of the Kazakh interior about halfway through the journey.
Get eSIMs for Russia
Get eSIMs for KazakhstanDistance: 3,122 km (1,940 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 40 min
Departure: SVO (55.972599, 37.4146)
Arrival: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.