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KIV → LED
Which side of the plane to sit from Chişinău International Airport (Chisinau) to Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior vantage point for the most dramatic landmarks, including the winding Dniester River at takeoff and the majestic expanse of Lake Ladoga during the descent into St. Petersburg.
Dniester River
The serpentine river forming the border between Moldova and the Transnistria region, offering high-contrast visuals.
Valdai Hills
The glacial landscapes and rolling uplands of the Russian heartland, dotted with small, pristine lakes.
Veliky Novgorod
The historic birthplace of Russia, where the Volkhov River flows out of Lake Ilmen towards the north.
Lake Ladoga
Europe's largest freshwater lake provides a stunning, sea-like vista during the final descent phase.
St. Petersburg Outskirts
A detailed view of the Neva River delta and the northern industrial and residential suburbs of the city.
The right side is essential for the Lake Ladoga view, which is the highlight of the flight. For the best photography, sit in front of the wing to capture the river systems and the dramatic scale of the lake during the turn into Pulkovo.
Chişinău Skyline
Bird's-eye view of the 'City of White Stone' and its sprawling Soviet-era architecture immediately after departure.
Polesia Marshes
A vast network of wetlands and dense forests spanning the border regions of Belarus and Ukraine.
Pskov Fortress
The ancient stone walls of the Pskov Krom, one of Russia's oldest citadels, visible near the Estonian border.
Gulf of Finland
On specific approach patterns from the west, the glittering waters of the Baltic Sea's eastern arm come into view.
Choose the left side for afternoon or evening flights to enjoy the sunset over the Baltic horizon. This side is also better for observing the dense, dark green taiga forests as you enter Northern Russia.
Distance: 1,434 km (891 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 55 min
Departure: KIV (46.92770004272461, 28.93099975585937)
Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)
Route Type: International
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