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NRT → DME
Which side of the plane to sit from Narita International Airport (Tokyo) to Domodedovo International Airport (Moscow)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for Japan's mountain ranges, the southern basin of Lake Baikal, and the dramatic transition from the Siberian wilderness to the fertile Volga basin.
Japanese Alps
Dramatic views of the snow-capped Hida and Kiso mountain ranges shortly after departure from Narita.
Lake Baikal
The world's deepest lake appears as a massive, deep blue crescent (or white expanse in winter) approximately mid-flight.
Southern Ural Mountains
The ancient geological boundary between Asia and Europe, featuring rugged ridges and dense forests.
Eurasian Steppe
Vast, undulating grasslands that stretch toward the horizon across southern Russia.
Volga River
Europe's longest river winding through the landscape as the flight approaches the Moscow region.
Sit on the left for the best sunlight during this westbound journey; the sun will be positioned to the south, illuminating the Siberian landscape without direct glare. Keep a close watch roughly 5-6 hours into the flight for Lake Baikal. In winter, the frozen patterns of the Angara river source are particularly striking from this side.
Sea of Japan
A vast maritime crossing between the Japanese archipelago and the Russian Far East.
Siberian Taiga
An endless carpet of coniferous forest stretching north toward the Arctic Circle.
Ob and Yenisei Rivers
Massive northward-flowing river systems that create intricate silver ribbons across the tundra.
Arctic Horizon
On clear days at high altitudes, the distant pale glow of the Arctic regions is visible to the north.
The right side is the premier choice for night flights during winter months, as it offers the best opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) over northern Siberia. While the landscape can be repetitive, the scale of the river deltas and the chance for celestial displays make it a strong alternative for night travelers.
Distance: 7,513 km (4,668 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 50 min
Departure: NRT (35.764701843299996, 140.386001587)
Arrival: DME (55.40879821777344, 37.90629959106445)
Route Type: International
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