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TSE → KZO
Which side of the plane to sit from Astana International Airport (Tselinograd) to Kzyl-Orda Southwest Airport (Kzyl-Orda)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the unique salt lakes of the Saryarka region, including the massive Lake Tengiz, and provides a clearer perspective of the Syr Darya river winding through the desert upon descent into Kyzylorda.
Nur-Alem Pavilion
The iconic spherical glass building from Expo 2017 visible during the initial climb out of TSE.
Lake Tengiz
A massive, shallow salt lake that serves as a critical habitat for flamingos; look for the distinct white salt crusts along its edges.
Ulytau Outliers
Distant views of the ancient Ulytau mountains, considered the historical and geographic center of Kazakhstan.
River Oasis
The sharp contrast between the dry desert and the lush green agricultural strips lining the banks of the Syr Darya.
KZO Approach
Excellent views of the rural Kazakh landscape and industrial outskirts of Kyzylorda during the final descent.
This is the 'cool' side for afternoon flights, staying in the shade. Keep a keen eye out about 20 minutes into the flight for the shimmering turquoise and white of Lake Tengiz. Polarized sunglasses are highly recommended to cut the glare from the salt flats and water bodies.
Astana Skyline
A glimpse of the futuristic Bayterek Tower and the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center shortly after takeoff.
Saryarka Steppe
Infinite stretches of the golden Kazakh steppe, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique biodiversity.
Betpak-Dala
The 'Hungry Steppe' desert, featuring dramatic arid terrain and seasonal salt pans that shift in color.
Syr Darya Meanders
The intricate, snake-like loops of the Syr Darya river as the flight approaches the fertile valley of Kyzylorda.
Sit toward the front to avoid wing obstruction of the Astana city views. During sunset flights, this side will experience direct sunlight, making it warmer but offering dramatic shadows over the steppe undulations.
Distance: 827 km (514 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: TSE (51.02220153808594, 71.46690368652344)
Arrival: KZO (44.706902, 65.592499)
Route Type: Domestic
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