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IST → VKO
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Vnukovo International Airport (Moscow)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular aerial view of the Bosphorus Strait upon departure and distant views of the Caucasus Mountains as the flight heads north across the Black Sea.
Bosphorus Strait
A breathtaking view of the bridge connecting Europe and Asia right after departing from Istanbul.
Caucasus Mountains
On clear days, the distant snow-capped peaks of the Greater Caucasus can be seen to the southeast.
Novorossiysk Bay
The industrial and naval port city visible as the flight enters Russian mainland airspace.
Don River
The winding curves of the Don River as it snakes through the southern Russian steppes.
Moscow Cityscape
Distant views of the Moscow International Business Center skyscrapers during the final approach.
The right side is the clear winner for the departure phase. To see the Caucasus, ensure you have a window seat away from the wing. During winter, the contrast of the frozen Don River is a highlight for passengers on this side.
Black Sea Coastline
Aerial view of the rugged coastline where Turkey meets the Black Sea shortly after takeoff.
Crimean Peninsula
Depending on the specific flight corridor, the southern tip of Crimea may be visible across the water.
Central Russian Upland
Vibrant agricultural patterns and the rolling hills of the Tula and Kaluga regions during descent.
Vnukovo Forest Belts
Dense pine and birch forests surrounding the southwestern approach to Moscow.
Sit on the left for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is ideal for spotting the unique shoreline of the Sea of Azov if the flight path tracks slightly westward.
Distance: 1,708 km (1,061 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 17 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: VKO (55.591499328599994, 37.2615013123)
Route Type: International
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