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JFK â SVO
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Sheremetyevo International Airport (Moscow)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Arctic landscapes, specifically the massive Greenland ice sheet and the volcanic terrain of Iceland, while providing the best vantage point for the Aurora Borealis.
Greenland Ice Sheet
Breathtaking views of the vast white expanse and massive glaciers flowing into the North Atlantic.
Icelandic Volcanics
Dramatic black sand beaches, glacial rivers, and volcanic peaks visible during clear transitions.
Aurora Borealis
High probability of seeing the Northern Lights during the dark hours of this high-latitude northern route.
Norwegian Coastline
Deep fjords and jagged mountain ranges as the aircraft enters Scandinavian airspace.
Nordic Capitals
Distant views of Stockholm or Helsinki archipelagos depending on the specific flight corridor.
Book a window seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. On overnight flights, use a blanket to cover your head and the window to block cabin light, allowing your eyes to adjust for spotting the Aurora. This side is most scenic during the 4th to 6th hours of the flight when crossing the North Atlantic.
Atlantic Sunrise
Spectacular views of the sun rising over the horizon as the flight heads east toward Europe.
Northern UK
Possible views of the Shetland Islands or the northern reaches of the Scottish Highlands.
Baltic Sea
Vast maritime traffic and coastal outlines of the Baltic states during the final cruise phase.
Russian Taiga
Dense, endless forests and winding river systems typical of the landscape west of Moscow.
Moscow Outskirts
The sprawling suburban landscape and industrial architecture during the approach to SVO.
The right side is ideal for those who prefer watching the sunrise, which occurs early on this eastbound journey. As you approach Moscow, this side often offers a better view of the agricultural patterns and dense forests of the Russian interior. Keep your window shade down during the middle of the flight to avoid waking other passengers as the sun rises.
Distance: 7,481 km (4,648 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 48 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: SVO (55.972599, 37.4146)
Route Type: International
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