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SVX → HRB
Which side of the plane to sit from Koltsovo Airport (Yekaterinburg) to Taiping Airport (Harbin)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a superior view of the southern Siberian landscape, most notably a spectacular perspective of Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world, and the rugged mountains bordering Mongolia.
Lake Baikal
The 'Pearl of Siberia' is clearly visible, showing its massive scale and deep blue waters (or intricate ice patterns in winter).
Irkutsk & Angara River
The historic Siberian city and the only river that flows out of Lake Baikal are often visible during the mid-flight transit.
Sayan Mountains
The dramatic, jagged peaks of the Eastern Sayan range that form the natural border with Mongolia.
Manchurian Plains
The geometric patterns of the vast agricultural heartland of Northeast China as you approach Heilongjiang province.
The right side is the prime choice for seeing Lake Baikal, usually occurring 3-4 hours into the flight. Note that because this is an eastbound flight south of the 60th parallel, the sun will be on the right side for much of the journey; use a polarized filter for photos to cut through the window glare. In winter, the lake's ice formations are best seen during the midday sun when the light penetrates the clear ice blocks.
Northern Ural Peaks
Aerial views of the ancient, snow-capped mountains that define the boundary between Europe and Asia shortly after takeoff.
Ob-Irtysh Basin
The intricate, winding patterns of the massive Siberian river systems as they cut through the western lowlands.
Central Siberian Taiga
An endless emerald sea of larch and pine forests stretching toward the Arctic horizon.
Greater Khingan Range
The densely forested mountain range in Northeast China as the flight begins its descent toward Harbin.
The left side is ideal for seeing the vastness of the uninhabited Russian North. For winter flights, this side offers softer lighting as it faces away from the direct southern sun, making it easier to photograph the white-out landscapes of the Arctic circle's edge.
Distance: 4,536 km (2,819 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 20 min
Departure: SVX (56.743099212646, 60.802700042725)
Arrival: HRB (45.6234016418457, 126.25)
Route Type: International
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