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URC → IKA
Which side of the plane to sit from Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (Urumqi) to Imam Khomeini International Airport (Tehran)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled view of the massive Tianshan and Alborz mountain ranges, including the iconic Mount Damavand during the descent into Tehran.
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Tianshan Mountains
Spectacular views of the 'Heavenly Mountains' shortly after takeoff from Urumqi, featuring jagged, snow-capped peaks.
Pamir Mountains
Distant but majestic views of the 'Roof of the World' to the south as you cross Central Asia.
Kopet Dag Range
The rugged natural border between Turkmenistan and Iran, showing dramatic geological folds and arid valleys.
Mount Damavand
The highest peak in Iran and the highest volcano in Asia, standing as a perfect cone on the approach to Tehran.
Tehran Skyline
As the plane banks for arrival at IKA, you get a sprawling view of the Iranian capital nestled against the mountains.
Book a window seat on the left (A or K depending on aircraft) to witness the Tianshan range immediately. This route is most scenic during morning flights when the sun illuminates the southern faces of the mountains. Keep your camera ready about 30-40 minutes before landing for the best shot of Mount Damavand's peak rising above the clouds.
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Karakum Desert
The vast 'Black Sands' of Turkmenistan, featuring unique dune patterns and extreme arid landscapes.
Ashgabat
The white-marbled capital of Turkmenistan is often visible as a bright oasis in the desert landscape.
Caspian Sea
The southern coastline of the world's largest inland body of water becomes visible as you enter Iranian airspace.
Gorgan Bay
The unique lagoon and wetlands at the southeastern corner of the Caspian Sea.
While the left side has the best mountains, the right side offers better views of the Caspian Sea's vastness and the unique urban layout of Ashgabat. Use a glare-reducing filter for photos, as the desert sun can be intense. This side is preferable if you want to avoid direct sunlight during a late afternoon westbound flight.
Book Hotels in TehranDistance: 3,220 km (2,001 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 47 min
Departure: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)
Arrival: IKA (35.416099548339844, 51.152198791503906)
Route Type: International
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