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TSE → SHJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Astana International Airport (Tselinograd) to Sharjah International Airport (Sharjah)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic geological shift from the Central Asian steppes to the spectacular folded ridges of the Zagros Mountains and the turquoise coastline of the Persian Gulf.
Aral Sea Basin
The hauntingly beautiful remains and salt-encrusted seabed of the southern Aral Sea region.
Kopet Dag Range
Rugged limestone mountains forming the natural border between Turkmenistan and Iran.
Zagros Folds
World-class views of the 'Simply Folded Belt,' where the Earth's crust looks like giant waves of rock.
Persian Gulf Coast
The vibrant transition from the rocky Iranian coastline to the clear turquoise waters of the Gulf.
Coastal Development
Views of the reclaimed land projects and busy shipping lanes approaching the UAE coast.
The right side is the 'geology side.' To see the Zagros Mountains in their full glory, book a flight that traverses Iran during midday. During winter months, these peaks are often snow-capped, providing a stark contrast to the desert below. Be prepared for some glare from the sun in the afternoon.
Kyzylkum Desert
Expansive views of the red sand desert stretching across Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.
Dasht-e Kavir
The Great Salt Desert of Iran, featuring surreal salt crusts and kaleidoscopic mineral patterns.
Eastern Zagros
Aerial perspective of the high-altitude peaks and arid valleys of central Iran.
Sharjah Urban Core
Views of the Khalid Lagoon, Al Noor Mosque, and the dense skyline of Sharjah during the final descent.
Sit on the left if you want a closer look at the urban layout of Sharjah and Dubai upon landing. This side is also better for avoiding direct afternoon sun on southbound flights, which helps with photography of the Iranian salt deserts.
Distance: 3,163 km (1,965 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 43 min
Departure: TSE (51.02220153808594, 71.46690368652344)
Arrival: SHJ (25.32859992980957, 55.5172004699707)
Route Type: International
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