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MLE → VKO
Which side of the plane to sit from Malé International Airport (Male) to Vnukovo International Airport (Moscow)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the most dramatic scenery, featuring the spectacular Hindu Kush mountains and the wide Volga River, all while avoiding direct afternoon sunlight.
Malé Skyline
A bird's-eye view of the densely built capital island and the Sinamalé Bridge during the initial climb.
Hindu Kush
Magnificent views of high-altitude peaks and glaciers over Afghanistan and Tajikistan.
Kyzylkum Desert
The golden-red sands and stark, arid landscapes of the Central Asian plains.
Aral Sea Basin
The hauntingly beautiful salt flats and remnants of the shrinking inland sea in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.
Volga River
Crossing Russia's most historic and vital waterway as the aircraft enters the European plain.
Moscow Forest Belt
The dense, lush green forests and sprawling exurbs surrounding the Russian capital during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for capturing the massive mountain ranges of Central Asia without sun glare. Since the flight travels North, the sun remains on the opposite side for most of the journey, providing perfect lighting for photography. Look out for the Aral Sea basin and the Volga River approximately 2 hours before landing.
North Malé Atoll
Stunning views of turquoise coral rings and luxury resorts immediately after takeoff from MLE.
Arabian Sea
A vast expanse of deep blue water as the flight leaves the Maldives archipelago and heads toward the subcontinent.
Elburz Mountains
If the route tracks west over Iran, the rugged, snowy ridges of the northern ranges become visible.
Caspian Sea
The western coastline of the world's largest inland body of water, often passing near the city of Baku.
Russian Farmlands
The geometric patchwork of vast agricultural fields in southern Russia near the Voronezh region.
Sit on the left for the best views of the resort islands in the North Malé Atoll upon departure. Be aware that during the typical afternoon flight path, this side faces direct sunlight, which may cause window glare. Keep an eye out for the western Caspian coastline as you enter Russian airspace.
Distance: 6,563 km (4,078 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 43 min
Departure: MLE (4.1918301582336435, 73.52909851074219)
Arrival: VKO (55.591499328599994, 37.2615013123)
Route Type: International
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