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DME โ SLY
Which side of the plane to sit from Domodedovo International Airport (Moscow) to Salekhard Airport (Salekhard)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of the Polar Ural Mountains during the descent, along with a clearer perspective of the Arctic Circle crossing and the vast, lake-filled tundra of the Yamal region.
Moscow Northern Sprawl
Aerial views of the expanding residential districts and forests north of Moscow shortly after takeoff from Domodedovo.
Volga River Basin
Glimpses of the upper Volga river and the intricate network of tributaries near the Yaroslavl and Kostroma regions.
Polar Ural Peaks
A stunning panoramic view of the rugged, snow-dusted Northern Ural Mountains as the flight begins its descent into the Yamal-Nenets region.
Arctic Circle Boundary
Visual transition into the Arctic zone, marked by the disappearance of dense taiga and the emergence of moss-covered tundra.
Frozen Thermokarst Lakes
The unique 'polka-dot' landscape of the Siberian tundra, featuring thousands of perfectly round permafrost lakes.
Sit on the left (Seat A) for the best mountain photography. Flights are usually in the morning or early afternoon; in winter, this side will catch the soft light of the low Arctic sun. Watch for the dramatic change in terrain about 40 minutes before landing when the Ural range appears. Bring a polarized filter for your camera to cut through the atmospheric haze and snow glare.
Komi Virgin Forests
Views of the vast, dark green expanses of the UNESCO-protected boreal forests in the Komi Republic.
Pechora River Meanders
The winding silver ribbons of the Pechora river system cutting through the wilderness.
The Ob River
An impressive view of one of the world's longest rivers as the aircraft approaches Salekhard, which sits on its banks.
Yamal Bridge
The 'Torch' bridge over the Shaitanka River and the distinctive architecture of Salekhard city during final approach.
Labytnangi View
The sister city of Labytnangi is often visible across the massive Ob river channel just before touchdown.
The right side (Seat F) is excellent for observing the scale of the Ob River. If flying during the winter months (DecemberโFebruary), this side may offer a better chance to spot the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) if the flight is delayed into the dark hours. Keep an eye out for the massive river barges and the '66th Parallel' monument upon descent.
Distance: 1,955 km (1,215 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 36 min
Departure: DME (55.40879821777344, 37.90629959106445)
Arrival: SLY (66.59079742431639, 66.61100006103516)
Route Type: Domestic
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