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DME â ESL
Which side of the plane to sit from Domodedovo International Airport (Moscow) to Elista Airport (Elista)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers spectacular views of the Central Russian Upland, the winding Don River, and the unique salt lakes of Kalmykia, topped with the best orientation for sunset viewing on evening flights.
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Moscow Skyline
Distant views of the Federation Tower and Ostankino if the flight path curves west after departure.
Tula Woodlands
Dense clusters of deciduous forests characteristic of the Central Russian Upland region.
The 'Quiet Don'
The famous Don River winding through the plains, offering high-contrast views against the soil.
Lake Manych-Gudilo
A vast, shallow salt lake system visible during the descent into Elista, often appearing white or pinkish.
Golden Abode
Glimpses of the Burkhan Bakshin Sume, Europe's largest Buddhist temple, as you approach ESL airport.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the endless steppe. Keep your camera ready during final descent for the distinct Buddhist architecture of Elista. Spring (late April) is the best time to see the steppe blooming with wild tulips.
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DME Environs
Aerial views of the industrial and logistics hubs south of Moscow immediately after takeoff.
Oka River
A major tributary of the Volga, visible as a wide, meandering silver ribbon shortly into the flight.
Black Earth Belt
The intricate geometric patchwork of the highly fertile agricultural fields near Tambov and Voronezh.
Volga-Don Canal
The strategic shipping link between the two great rivers visible as you approach the southern regions.
Arid Steppes
The dramatic transition from green forests to the vast, brownish semi-desert landscape of Kalmykia.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. Watch for the massive Volga River bend if the pilot takes a slightly eastern corridor. The terrain becomes notably flatter and more barren as you cross the 47th parallel.
Get eSIMs for Russia
Get eSIMs for RussiaDistance: 1,100 km (684 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min
Departure: DME (55.40879821777344, 37.90629959106445)
Arrival: ESL (46.3739013671875, 44.33089828491211)
Route Type: Domestic
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