Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains during departure are far more visually striking than the flat steppe and river approach to Shymkent. The takeoff views outweigh the landing views on this short route.
Flown ALA to CIT? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Almaty to Chimkent is 389 miles (626 km), a flight of about 1 hour 10 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Kazakh steppe westward from Almaty. Notable features include the Chu River valley (visible as a green corridor through the steppe), scattered settlements and roads, and the gradual transition from foothills to flat plains. The Betpak-Dala desert region lies to the north of the direct flight path. On clear days, Lake Balkhash may be visible far to the north on the horizon during cruise.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ALA
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains immediately south of Almaty during climb-out. The aircraft departs westbound, so the right wing points toward these dramatic peaks as you gain altitude.
Landing at CIT
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Syrdarya River valley and surrounding steppe as you descend toward Shymkent from the east. The aircraft approaches from the northeast, so the left wing faces the river system and city approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Almaty (ALA) to Shymkent (CIT)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Almaty to Chimkent. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains during departure are far more visually striking than the flat steppe and river approach to Shymkent. The takeoff views outweigh the landing views on this short route.
What can I see during takeoff from Almaty in Almaty?
During takeoff from Almaty (ALA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains immediately south of Almaty during climb-out. The aircraft departs westbound, so the right wing points toward these dramatic peaks as you gain altitude. Notable sights include: Trans-Ili Alatau mountain range (snow-capped peaks), Almaty city sprawl below, Turgen Gorge to the southeast, Lake Issyk-Kul visible on clear days to the east.
What can I see when landing at Shymkent in Chimkent?
When landing at Shymkent (CIT), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Syrdarya River valley and surrounding steppe as you descend toward Shymkent from the east. The aircraft approaches from the northeast, so the left wing faces the river system and city approach. Notable sights include: Syrdarya River (meandering through flat terrain), Shymkent city and industrial zones, flat Kazakh steppe, distant Karatau Mountains to the south.
How long is the flight from Almaty to Chimkent?
The flight from Almaty (ALA) to Shymkent (CIT) takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 389 miles (626 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Almaty to Chimkent flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Kazakh steppe westward from Almaty. Notable features include the Chu River valley (visible as a green corridor through the steppe), scattered settlements and roads, and the gradual transition from foothills to flat plains. The Betpak-Dala desert region lies to the north of the direct flight path. On clear days, Lake Balkhash may be visible far to the north on the horizon during cruise.