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OTP → SVO
Which side of the plane to sit from Henri Coandă International Airport (Bucharest) to Sheremetyevo International Airport (Moscow)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the approach into Moscow, including the chance to see the iconic city skyline and the winding river systems of the Eastern European plain.
Prut River
The winding natural border between Romania and Moldova, creating intricate silver patterns on the landscape below.
Russian Steppe
The transition from the hilly Balkan terrain to the vast, flat agricultural heartlands of Western Russia.
Moscow City Skyline
On clear days during the descent into SVO, the 'Moscow City' skyscrapers and the Ostankino Tower are often visible to the south.
Moskva River
The meandering river that snakes through the capital, providing a geographic guide during the final approach.
Luzhniki Area
Glimpses of the massive sporting complexes and urban parks of southern Moscow depending on the landing pattern.
The right side is highly recommended for the descent. Ask for a window seat away from the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of Moscow's urban sprawl. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the Russian plains.
Eastern Carpathian Mountains
Spectacular views of the rugged peaks and dense forests of the Romanian Carpathians shortly after departure from Bucharest.
Belarusian/Russian Woodlands
Vast stretches of deep green coniferous forests that dominate the landscape as the flight progresses north.
Western Horizon
Ideal for evening flights, offering long-lasting golden hour views and vibrant sunsets over the European continent.
Smolensk Uplands
Hilly terrain and small historic settlements visible when the flight path skirts the western Russian border.
Sit on the left for evening departures to catch the sunset. If the flight takes a more westerly detour through Baltic airspace, you may catch glimpses of the Vistula river valley.
Distance: 1,498 km (931 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs
Departure: OTP (44.5711111, 26.085)
Arrival: SVO (55.972599, 37.4146)
Route Type: International
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