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MRU destination photo
VKO destination photo

MRUVKO

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior mix of diverse geography, including the vibrant coral reefs of Mauritius, the dramatic escarpments of the Ethiopian Highlands, and the striking contrast of the Red Sea coast against the African desert.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Mauritius Lagoons

Crystal clear turquoise reefs and white sand beaches visible immediately after takeoff from MRU.

🏔️

Ethiopian Highlands

Dramatic cliffs and jagged peaks of the Simien Mountains region in East Africa.

🏝️

The Red Sea

A stunning visual contrast between the deep sapphire sea and the stark golden sands of the African coast.

⛰️

Anatolian Plateau

The rugged, arid landscapes of Turkey featuring interesting geological formations and salt lakes.

🏙️

Black Sea Crossing

Views of the coastal transition as the flight leaves Turkish airspace and heads north over the sea.

Choose the left side for the most dramatic transition from tropical islands to high-altitude African peaks. Ensure your window is clear for the first 20 minutes to see the Mauritius coastline. Mid-flight, the Ethiopian Highlands provide some of the world's most unique aerial topography, best viewed in midday light when shadows highlight the deep canyons. If flying during the day, the glare from the sun will be less intense on this side during the northern portion of the journey.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏜️

Rub' al Khali Desert

The 'Empty Quarter' of Saudi Arabia, showcasing massive, shifting red sand dunes.

🏔️

Caucasus Range

Majestic snow-capped peaks stretching between the Black and Caspian Seas, including Mount Elbrus.

🌾

Russian Steppes

The vast, geometric patchwork of fertile agricultural land in Southern Russia.

🌊

Sea of Azov

Possible views of the shallowest sea in the world depending on the specific flight corridor.

🏢

Moscow Outskirts

The dense forests and urban development surrounding the Vnukovo approach.

The right side is the choice for mountain enthusiasts wishing to spot Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe, as you cross the Caucasus. On an overnight flight, this side receives the early morning light over the Indian Ocean. During the final hour of flight, the right side often provides a clearer view of the vast Russian plains and the approaching Moscow metropolitan area. Be aware that during the summer months, the sun will be on this side for a significant portion of the morning flight.

Top Activities in Moscow
Route Information

Distance: 8,671 km (5,388 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 12 min

Departure: MRU (-20.430201, 57.683601)

Arrival: VKO (55.591499328599994, 37.2615013123)

Route Type: International

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