Loading map...
MSQ → LED
Which side of the plane to sit from Minsk National Airport (Minsk 2) to Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route because it offers a stunning perspective of Lake Peipus (Chudskoye Lake) during the cruise and an unparalleled view of the Gulf of Finland and the St. Petersburg city center during the standard approach into Pulkovo Airport.
Lake Peipus
One of the largest lakes in Europe, forming the natural border between Russia and Estonia.
Pskov Kremlin
The ancient fortress of Pskov is often visible as you transition into Russian airspace.
Gulf of Finland
On many approach patterns, the plane flies over the water, offering views of the Kronshtadt naval base.
St. Petersburg Skyline
Panoramic views of the Neva River, the Winter Palace, and the Lakhta Center skyscraper.
Minsk Sea
Shortly after takeoff, look for the Zaslawskaye Reservoir, a popular getaway for locals.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. For evening flights, this side catches the sunset over the Baltic horizon. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the Lakhta Center, which is the tallest building in Europe and highly prominent on the left.
Belarusian Taiga
Vast stretches of dense pine and spruce forests typical of the northern Vitebsk region.
Vitebsk & Western Dvina
The winding Western Dvina river and the historic city of Vitebsk can be spotted mid-flight.
Tsarskoye Selo
During the final descent, the Catherine Palace and its turquoise facades are visible in the town of Pushkin.
Pulkovo Heights
Strategic high ground south of St. Petersburg that offers a clear view of the airport's modern terminal.
M20 Highway
The historic 'Kievskoye Shosse' provides a straight geometric line through the Russian landscape.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. It provides the best view of the imperial palaces in Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo) and Pavlovsk just moments before landing. Watch for the distinctive blue and gold domes of regional cathedrals dotting the landscape.
Distance: 672 km (418 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min
Departure: MSQ (53.882499694824, 28.030700683594)
Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.