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TSE → FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from Astana International Airport (Tselinograd) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior lighting for photography when flying west during the day, minimizing glare. It provides distant views of the Caucasus Mountains and better angles for the scenic approach into Frankfurt over the Rhine-Main region.
Astana Modern Architecture
On departure, get a glimpse of the futuristic skyline of Astana, including the Bayterek Tower and the pyramid-shaped Palace of Peace.
Northern Caspian Sea
As you head west, the vast turquoise and navy waters of the Caspian Sea come into view, showing the unique coastline of Kazakhstan.
Greater Caucasus Distant View
On clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus Mountains are visible to the south as you cross the Black Sea region.
Carpathian Mountains
When entering European airspace over Romania or Hungary, look for the rugged, forested ridges of the High Tatras and Carpathians.
Upper Middle Rhine Valley
During the descent into Frankfurt, view the winding Main River and the dense forests of the Spessart or Odenwald regions.
Sit on the left for the best light quality as the sun will be behind or to the side of the aircraft for most of the westbound journey. During winter, look for the 'ice-shove' formations on the Caspian Sea. Keep your camera ready about 45 minutes before landing for the picturesque German countryside.
Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center
The world's largest tent structure is often clearly visible on the northern edge of Astana shortly after takeoff.
The Kazakh Steppe
Observe the immense, seemingly endless golden grasslands of Central Asia, dotted with occasional salt lakes and nomadic routes.
Ural River
Cross the geographic border between Asia and Europe where the Ural River cuts through the dry landscape.
Central European Cities
Depending on the specific flight corridor, you may see the urban sprawls of Warsaw, Berlin, or Leipzig as you traverse the North European Plain.
Frankfurt Skyline
If the wind is from the west, the right side offers a spectacular view of 'Mainhattan'—Frankfurt's unique skyscraper district—during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for seeing the vastness of the Kazakh plains and the transition into the densely populated heart of Europe. Be aware of sun glare in the afternoon. On approach, if the plane lands from the east (Runway 25), the right side provides the iconic view of the Frankfurt financial district.
Distance: 4,309 km (2,677 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 4 min
Departure: TSE (51.02220153808594, 71.46690368652344)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
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