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DME β GYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Domodedovo International Airport (Moscow) to Heydar Aliyev International Airport (Baku)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Greater Caucasus mountain range, featuring snow-capped peaks and the transition from Russian steppes to Azerbaijani high-altitude terrain.
Greater Caucasus Range
A stunning panoramic view of the massive mountain chain that forms the natural border between Russia and the South Caucasus.
Mount Elbrus
On clear days, the twin peaks of Europe's highest mountain may be visible in the far distance to the west during the mid-flight segment.
Mount Shahdag
One of Azerbaijan's most famous peaks, known for its flat top and year-round snow, visible as you cross the border region.
Azerbaijani Badlands
The dramatic shift from alpine greenery to the arid, Mars-like semi-desert landscapes near the Caspian coast is highly visible.
Baku Cityscape
Depending on the wind direction and landing pattern, the right side often catches views of the Flame Towers and Baku's modern architecture.
Book the right side for morning flights to see the Caucasus Mountains illuminated by the rising sun. For the best photography, avoid seats directly over the wing as they will block the vertical drop-off of the mountain ridges. In winter, the entire mountain range is covered in brilliant white snow, making for exceptional views regardless of the time of day.
Caspian Sea Horizon
As the flight approaches Azerbaijan, the left side provides a wide-angle view of the world's largest inland body of water.
Ancient Derbent
Look for one of Russia's oldest cities and its historic fortress situated on the narrow coastal strip between the mountains and the sea.
Caspian Oil Platforms
During the descent into Baku, you can spot numerous offshore oil rigs and infrastructure dotting the blue waters of the Absheron shelf.
Absheron Peninsula
The unique 'eagle-beak' shape of the Azerbaijani coastline becomes visible as the plane maneuvers for its final approach.
Sit on the left if you are flying in the late afternoon or evening to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. This side is also superior for viewing the industrial and maritime activity of the Caspian Sea as you descend into GYD. Keep an eye out for the 'Oil Rocks' (Neft DaΕlarΔ±) if the flight path takes a wide approach over the water.
Distance: 1,885 km (1,171 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 31 min
Departure: DME (55.40879821777344, 37.90629959106445)
Arrival: GYD (40.46749877929688, 50.04669952392578)
Route Type: International
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