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KUF → VKO
Which side of the plane to sit from Kurumoch International Airport (Samara) to Vnukovo International Airport (Moscow)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer views of the Volga, the right side is generally superior for its perspective of the Tolyatti industrial landscape and the high-value approach views of the Moscow skyline and the iconic 'Moscow City' skyscrapers when landing at Vnukovo.
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Tolyatti & AvtoVAZ
View the massive industrial complex of Russia's 'Motor City' and the Tolyatti Shipyard shortly after takeoff.
Kuybyshev Reservoir
The 'Samara Sea' – one of the largest reservoirs in the world – stretches out toward the horizon.
Oka River Meanders
The winding silver ribbon of the Oka River provides a beautiful geographic landmark mid-flight.
Moscow City Skyline
During the standard STAR approach to VKO, the skyscrapers of the International Business Center are often visible in the distance.
Vnukovo Terminal
A close-up view of the distinctive 'drop' shaped terminal architecture just before touchdown.
Sit on the right for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Russian plains. Keep your camera ready about 15-20 minutes before landing; if the wind is from the west, the flight path often curves north of Moscow, offering a panoramic view of the entire capital city.
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Samara Bend (Samarskaya Luka)
Immediately after takeoff, witness the dramatic 180-degree U-turn of the Volga River around the mountains.
Zhiguli Mountains
Dramatic limestone cliffs and forested slopes visible as the plane gains altitude heading west.
Ryazan Landmarks
As the flight nears the Moscow region, the historic sprawl of Ryazan and its southern districts can be spotted.
Meshchera Lowlands
Vast expanses of mixed forests and wetlands characteristic of the Central Russian landscape.
Moscow Southern Suburbs
Dense residential developments of the New Moscow districts during the descent.
The left side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the harsh sun glare coming from the south. It is the best side for photography of the Samara Bend's unique geology immediately following departure from KUF.
Get eSIMs for Russia
Get eSIMs for RussiaDistance: 862 km (536 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min
Departure: KUF (53.504901885986, 50.16429901123)
Arrival: VKO (55.591499328599994, 37.2615013123)
Route Type: Domestic
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