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BTK → VKO
Which side of the plane to sit from Bratsk Airport (Bratsk) to Vnukovo International Airport (Moscow)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior lighting with the sun usually positioned to the south, providing clear views of major Siberian cities like Novosibirsk and the sprawling Volga River basin near Nizhny Novgorod.
Bratsk Reservoir
Aerial view of the massive southern section of the reservoir shortly after takeoff.
Novosibirsk & Ob River
A clear view of the 'Capital of Siberia' and the wide crossing of the Ob River mid-flight.
Southern Ural Mountains
The transition from the West Siberian Plain into the ancient, forested peaks of the Urals.
Nizhny Novgorod & Volga
The dramatic confluence of the Oka and Volga rivers, one of Russia's most historic trade hubs.
Vnukovo Approach
Vistas of the Moscow suburbs and the city's southwestern green belt during the descent.
Sit on the left for softer, more consistent lighting as you travel westward. This side is better for spotting major urban centers like Novosibirsk. In winter, the low sun angle creates dramatic shadows across the Ural peaks, enhancing the topography. For morning flights, this side avoids the direct glare of the sun.
Bratsk Dam
An immediate look at the massive hydroelectric dam and the Angara River as you depart.
Yenisei River Crossing
One of the world's great rivers cutting through the Siberian wilderness.
West Siberian Taiga
Endless expanses of coniferous forests and marshlands characteristic of northern Russia.
Central Ural Vistas
Views of the more rugged, northerly ridges of the Ural mountain range in the distance.
Kama River Basin
The intricate waterways of the Kama River before it joins the Volga system.
The right side is essential for the first 10 minutes to see the engineering marvel of the Bratsk Dam. As you fly west, you'll see the wilder, less populated northern landscapes. Be aware that the sun will be on the opposite side, which can cause reflections on the window but provides excellent views of the 'Blue Taiga' in the summer.
Distance: 3,860 km (2,398 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 32 min
Departure: BTK (56.37060165405274, 101.697998046875)
Arrival: VKO (55.591499328599994, 37.2615013123)
Route Type: Domestic
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