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GDZ destination photo
SVO destination photo

GDZSVO

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the dramatic Black Sea coastline and the Tsemes Bay immediately after departure, followed by excellent views of the Moscow city skyline during the standard approach to Sheremetyevo.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Tsemes Bay

A stunning bird's-eye view of the Novorossiysk port and the deep blue waters of the Black Sea immediately after takeoff from Gelendzhik.

🌾

Kuban Steppes

The geometric patchwork of the fertile Krasnodar region, displaying vibrant greens and yellows across Russia's agricultural heartland.

🏙️

Voronezh Reservoir

The massive 'Voronezh Sea' and the urban layout of this major regional center are clearly visible midway through the flight.

🏗️

Tula Region Landscapes

A transition into the Central Russian Upland featuring a mix of industrial history and dense deciduous forests.

🏰

Moscow City Skyline

On many approach paths to SVO, passengers on the left can spot the gleaming skyscrapers of the Moscow International Business Center.

For the best experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Afternoon flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, perfectly illuminating the Black Sea coast and the Moscow skyline. During winter, look for the stark contrast of the dark, non-freezing Black Sea against the snow-covered Caucasus foothills.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏔️

Caucasus Mountains

During the initial climb, the snow-capped peaks of the Greater Caucasus range are visible on the horizon to the southeast.

💧

Krasnodar Reservoir

A vast artificial lake on the Kuban River, often referred to as the 'Kuban Sea,' visible shortly after departure.

🛥️

Don River Bends

Spectacular views of the winding Don River as the flight path crosses from Southern Russia toward the central plains.

🌲

Oka River Basin

The scenic, heavily forested banks of the Oka River as you enter the Moscow metropolitan region.

🛫

Sheremetyevo Forest Buffer

The lush green belt and suburban developments surrounding the northern reaches of Moscow during the final descent.

The right side is perfect for morning flights to witness the sunrise over the Russian plains. If the flight path takes a more easterly route, you will have a better view of the massive Krasnodar Reservoir. Keep an eye out for the silver ribbon of the Don River, which is a primary landmark for pilots and passengers alike on this route.

Top Activities in Moscow
Route Information

Distance: 1,267 km (787 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 41 min

Departure: GDZ (44.5820926295, 38.0124807358)

Arrival: SVO (55.972599, 37.4146)

Route Type: Domestic

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