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SKD → DME
Which side of the plane to sit from Samarkand Airport (Samarkand) to Domodedovo International Airport (Moscow)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the Nuratau mountains immediately after takeoff and a more direct view of the Aral Sea basin and the vast, shifting colors of the Kazakh steppe.
Nuratau Mountains
Dramatic rocky ridges and deep valleys located just north of Samarkand visible during the initial climb.
Aral Sea Basin
The hauntingly beautiful and stark landscape of the Aralkum Desert, formerly the seabed of the Aral Sea.
Kazakh Steppe
An endless horizon of golden grasslands and remote, isolated settlements in Western Kazakhstan.
Ural River Border
The winding Ural River, marking the geographical boundary between the Asian and European continents.
Russian Boreal Forest
A sharp transition into the dense, dark green forests and wetlands of the Moscow Oblast upon descent.
The right side is ideal for capturing the geological transition from desert to steppe. About 90 minutes into the flight, look for the unique white salt flats of the former Aral Sea. In winter, the snow-covered steppe provides incredible high-contrast photography opportunities.
Samarkand Ancient City
Bird's-eye view of the historic Registan Square and Bibi-Khanym Mosque shortly after departure.
Kyzylkum Desert
Vast stretches of red sand dunes and ancient caravan routes through the heart of Central Asia.
Lower Volga River
The massive expanse of the Volga river near Saratov, featuring complex irrigation systems and bridge spans.
Moscow Ring Road
Dense urban architecture and the sprawling infrastructure of the Russian capital's southern districts.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is also excellent for spotting the intricate patterns of the Volga river's industrial hubs during the latter half of the journey.
Distance: 2,760 km (1,715 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 41 min
Departure: SKD (39.70050048828125, 66.98380279541016)
Arrival: DME (55.40879821777344, 37.90629959106445)
Route Type: International
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