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YKS destination photo
NER destination photo

YKSNER

Which side of the plane to sit from Yakutsk Airport (Yakutsk) to Chulman Airport (Neryungri)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the sprawling Lena River valley shortly after takeoff and the dramatic transition from the Siberian plains to the rugged Stanovoy Highlands during descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Lena Pillars Region

Distanced views of the ancient limestone formations along the Lena riverbank during the initial climb.

🛶

Amga River Valley

The deep, picturesque valley of the Amga River, known for its clean water and winding path through the hills.

⛰️

Stanovoy Range

Jagged mountain ridges and high-altitude plateaus that signal the approach into southern Yakutia.

🚜

Neryungri Open-Pit Mine

One of the largest coal mines in Russia, appearing as a massive, terraced grey crater during the descent into NER.

The right side is prime for the descent into Neryungri; the scale of the coal mining operations is best viewed from this side. In autumn, the taiga turns a brilliant gold, making the mountain views particularly striking. Ensure your window is clean as the low Siberian sun can highlight any scratches or frost.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Lena River Bend

Spectacular views of the massive Lena River widening as it flows north, visible shortly after departure.

🌲

Sakha Taiga

An endless carpet of larch and pine forests, showcasing the vastness of the world's largest subarctic forest.

💧

Aldan River Basin

Aerial perspective of the meandering tributaries that feed into the Aldan River, cutting through the permafrost.

❄️

Thermokarst Lakes

Numerous small, circular lakes formed by melting permafrost, creating a unique 'honeycomb' landscape in summer.

Choose the left side for the morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep an eye out for the distinct silver glint of the Aldan River tributaries approximately mid-way through the flight. During winter, look for the 'ice roads' carved across the frozen river surfaces.

Top Activities in Neryungri
Route Information

Distance: 637 km (396 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 4 min

Departure: YKS (62.093299865722656, 129.77099609375)

Arrival: NER (56.913898468018, 124.91400146484)

Route Type: Domestic

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