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DME → IEV
Which side of the plane to sit from Domodedovo International Airport (Moscow) to Kiev Zhuliany International Airport (Kiev)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer rolling plains and scenic river crossings, the Right Side is superior during the descent into Kiev, providing a panoramic view of the city center, the Dnieper riverbanks, and iconic landmarks like the Pechersk Lavra.
Moscow City View
Depending on the departure path, a distant view of the Moscow International Business Center skyscrapers is often possible to the north.
Bryansk Nature Reserve
Fly over the vast, dense woodlands of the Bryansk region, one of the largest forest massifs in Europe.
Kiev Pechersk Lavra
On the approach to IEV, look for the glinting golden domes of the historic monastery complex perched on the Dnieper hills.
Motherland Monument
The massive stainless steel statue is clearly visible overlooking the river as the plane lines up with the Zhuliany runway.
Dnieper River Bridges
A spectacular sequence of bridges connecting the two halves of Kiev can be seen just minutes before touchdown.
The Right Side is the 'scenic side' for landing at IEV. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting as the sun illuminates the golden domes of the city's churches. During the winter, the frozen Dnieper creates a stunning white landscape. If the plane circles before landing, you may get a direct view of the Olympic Stadium and the central business district.
Oka River Meanders
Shortly after takeoff from DME, you will see the winding path of the Oka River through the Moscow region's lush greenery.
Chernihiv Skyline
One of the oldest cities in Ukraine is visible to the east as you cross the border, identifiable by its historic church spires.
Left Bank Residential Blocks
During the final approach, the dense, high-rise residential districts of Kiev's Left Bank create an impressive urban grid.
Desna River Mouth
Watch for the blue waters of the Desna River as it joins the mighty Dnieper just north of the city limits.
The left side is best for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It provides a great view of the Kiev Reservoir ('Kiev Sea') during the initial stages of the descent. Look for the distinct change in landscape from the forested Russian plains to the more agricultural fields of northern Ukraine.
Distance: 747 km (464 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 15 min
Departure: DME (55.40879821777344, 37.90629959106445)
Arrival: IEV (50.40194, 30.451940000000004)
Route Type: International
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