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SGC → KIV
Which side of the plane to sit from Surgut Airport (Surgut) to Chişinău International Airport (Chisinau)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the sprawling river systems of the Eurasian interior and the dramatic transition from the Siberian Taiga to the Pontic Steppe. You will also have a better angle for the Southern Ural mountain ridges and the expansive coastline of the Black Sea or Sea of Azov depending on the specific flight corridor.
Ob River Basin
Immediately after takeoff from Surgut, observe one of the world's longest river systems winding through the West Siberian Plain.
Southern Ural Mountains
View the ancient, weathered peaks that mark the traditional boundary between the continents of Asia and Europe.
Volga-Don Canal Region
The massive scale of the Volga River and the industrial infrastructure connecting Russia's primary waterways.
Sea of Azov Coastline
On clear days, the shallow, turquoise waters of the Taganrog Bay and the Sea of Azov provide a stunning contrast to the land.
Kuban Steppes
Vast, colorful agricultural patterns that resemble a giant patchwork quilt across the southern Russian plains.
Sit on the left for the best lighting during morning and midday flights, as the sun will be positioned to the south. Look for the glint of the Volga river about midway through the flight. If the flight path tracks south to avoid restricted airspace, this side provides prime views of the northern Black Sea coast.
West Siberian Taiga
Endless stretches of coniferous forests and mysterious marshlands characteristic of the Khanty-Mansi region.
Yekaterinburg Suburbs
The sprawling urban development of the Urals' most significant industrial and cultural powerhouse.
Kama River Tributaries
The intricate network of rivers feeding into the Kama, reflecting the sky in a maze-like pattern.
Central Russian Upland
The subtle, rolling hills that break the flatness of the landscape as you cross into the European portion of the route.
Moldovan Wine Country
During the final descent into Chisinau, look for the neatly rowed vineyards and white limestone hills of the Codru region.
The right side is ideal for capturing the sunset if your flight is in the late afternoon. During the descent into KIV, this side offers an excellent view of the Dniester (Nistru) River and the rural landscapes of Eastern Moldova. Keep your camera ready for the contrast between the industrial East and the pastoral West.
Distance: 3,223 km (2,003 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 48 min
Departure: SGC (61.34370040893555, 73.40180206298828)
Arrival: KIV (46.92770004272461, 28.93099975585937)
Route Type: International
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