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ALA → VKO
Which side of the plane to sit from Almaty Airport (Alma-ata) to Vnukovo International Airport (Moscow)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains immediately after takeoff, followed by a better angle of the Volga River and the southern reaches of the Russian landscape.
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Trans-Ili Alatau
Dramatic, snow-capped peaks of the Northern Tian Shan range visible immediately after departing Almaty.
Syr Darya River
The winding ribbon of one of Central Asia's longest rivers cutting through the arid Kazakh landscape.
Aral Sea Basin
The stark, white salt flats and remnants of the shrinking Aral Sea visible on the distant southern horizon.
Volga River
A grand crossing of Europe's longest river, typically seen near the city of Saratov.
Central Russian Upland
Transition into the lush forests and rolling agricultural heartland of European Russia.
For the most dramatic mountain photography, choose a morning flight when the sun illuminates the Alatau peaks from the east. The left side is also superior for viewing the vastness of the Kazakh desert regions and the impressive width of the Volga. Be aware of midday glare as the sun will be to the south for most of the journey.
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Almaty Cityscape
A panoramic view of the city of Almaty and the iconic Kok Tobe TV Tower against the mountain backdrop.
Lake Balkhash
The distinct turquoise waters of one of Asia's largest lakes visible to the north in the distance.
The Great Steppe
Endless, mesmerizing horizons of the Kazakh Steppe, showing the scale of the world's largest dry steppe region.
Mugodzhar Hills
The southern-most extension of the Ural Mountains, appearing as ancient, weathered ridges.
Moscow City View
On many arrival patterns into Vnukovo, the right side provides a clear view of the Moscow City skyscrapers and the Kremlin.
The right side is ideal for travelers wanting to avoid direct sunlight while crossing the steppe. It offers the best chance to see the Moscow skyline during the descent into VKO, depending on the landing direction. Watch for the unique landscape patterns of the 'Hungry Steppe' (Betpak-Dala) mid-flight.
Book Hotels in MoscowDistance: 3,124 km (1,941 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 41 min
Departure: ALA (43.35210037231445, 77.04049682617188)
Arrival: VKO (55.591499328599994, 37.2615013123)
Route Type: International
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