Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Tbilisi to Alma-ata. The right side (south/southeast) scores higher due to the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains providing sustained dramatic terrain during the entire approach and landing sequence. While Tbilisi's departure offers good Caucasus views, the cruise segment over the steppe between the two cities is relatively featureless. Almaty's landing approach compensates with concentrated alpine scenery, turquoise lakes, and sharp relief that creates more visual interest than the gradual fade of Caucasus peaks during the TBS departure.

During takeoff from Lochini (TBS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Tbilisi's departure offers immediate urban scenery and the Caucasus Mountains rising dramatically to the north. The city sprawls across the Mtkvari River valley with the Old Town visible before climb-out, and snow-capped peaks of the Greater Caucasus form a striking backdrop. Notable sights include: Tbilisi cityscape and Metekhi Church district, Mtkvari River gorge, Greater Caucasus Mountains (north face), Mount Kazbegi (5,047 m) visible on clear days.

When landing at Almaty (ALA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Almaty's approach from the west reveals the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains rising abruptly from the steppe, creating dramatic relief. The city sits in a narrow valley between mountains and desert, offering striking visual contrast. The approach descent provides extended views of the snow-capped peaks and the urban sprawl nestled against the range. Notable sights include: Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains (south face), Big Almaty Lake (turquoise alpine lake at 2,511 m), Almaty city grid in the valley, Turgen Gorge and surrounding peaks.

The flight from Lochini (TBS) to Almaty (ALA) takes 2h 15m.

The flight crosses the Caucasus foothills and transitions into the Kazakh steppe. Notable features include the Mtkvari River valley (initial climb), the Lesser Caucasus ridges fading eastward, the broad Kura River basin, and the transition to open steppe around the Caspian Depression. The Ustyurt Plateau and Mangystau region occupy the central cruise segment (relatively flat and featureless). As the aircraft approaches Almaty from the west, the Betpak-Dala desert gives way to the dramatic rise of the Trans-Ili Alatau range.