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KGF â LED
Which side of the plane to sit from Sary-Arka Airport (Karaganda) to Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the modern Astana skyline shortly after takeoff, followed by the rugged Middle Ural ridges and a spectacular approach over Lake Ladoga into St. Petersburg.
Astana Skyline
Look north to see the futuristic architecture of Kazakhstan's capital rising from the steppe.
Korgalzhyn Lakes
A UNESCO site featuring a labyrinth of blue and pinkish alkaline lakes.
Central Ural Ridges
Denser mountain terrain and industrial cities nestled in the valleys below.
Rybinsk Reservoir
A massive man-made sea on the upper Volga that dominates the northern horizon.
Lake Ladoga
Stunning views of Europe's largest lake during the descent into Pulkovo.
Sit toward the front to avoid wing obstruction of the Astana skyline early in the flight. This side is exceptional for photography during the 'White Nights' season (June-July) when the northern horizon stays bright. On the final approach to LED, the right side often catches views of the Neva River delta.
Kazakh Steppe
Infinite expanses of the Saryarka highlands with unique geological formations.
Southern Ural Foothills
The ancient, weathered peaks marking the geographic transition from Asia to Europe.
Volga River Bend
Aerial views of the massive waterway as it winds through the Russian heartland.
Veliky Novgorod
A glimpse of one of Russia's oldest cities situated near the banks of Lake Ilmen.
Choose this side for softer lighting during afternoon flights to avoid direct glare. It provides better views of the expansive Russian plains and the agricultural heartland of the Volga region. Keep an eye out for the distinct silver glint of Lake Ilmen during the final 30 minutes of the flight.
Distance: 2,922 km (1,816 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 54 min
Departure: KGF (49.670799255371094, 73.33439636230469)
Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)
Route Type: International
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