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SVO → ABA
Which side of the plane to sit from Sheremetyevo International Airport (Moscow) to Abakan Airport (Abakan)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the major river systems of Central Russia and the dramatic landscape transition as the aircraft approaches the Sayan Mountains and the Yenisei River valley near Abakan.
Nizhny Novgorod
The stunning confluence of the Oka and Volga rivers, featuring the historic Kremlin and city center.
Southern Ural Range
More rugged sections of the Urals, often featuring snow-capped peaks later into the spring season.
Kazakh Steppe Border
Views of the vast, open plains along the Russian-Kazakhstan border region with unique agricultural patterns.
Yenisei River Basin
The mighty Yenisei River becomes visible during the descent, carving through the Siberian landscape.
Sayan Mountain Foothills
Dramatic rocky outcrops and rolling hills that signify the entry into the Khakassia region.
Abakan Final Approach
A scenic descent over the Minusinsk Hollow, surrounded by mountain ranges on nearly all sides.
This side is the clear winner for river enthusiasts. Be prepared for direct sunlight for most of the flight if traveling during the day. During the final 30 minutes of the flight, stay alert for the Yenisei River and the Krasnoyarsk Reservoir to the south. In winter, the frozen river patterns are particularly striking from this side. For the best photography, choose a seat behind the wing to capture the Sayan foothills in the background.
Moscow Outskirts
Aerial views of the Klyazma Reservoir and the northern suburbs of the capital shortly after takeoff from SVO.
Upper Volga Region
The winding course of the Volga River near Yaroslavl and Kostroma as the flight heads east.
Middle Ural Mountains
The ancient, forested peaks of the Urals, marking the geographic border between Europe and Asia.
Western Siberian Taiga
An endless expanse of deep green coniferous forest stretching toward the Arctic horizon.
Ob River Crossing
A view of one of the world's longest rivers, typically seen near the halfway point of the journey.
The left side is ideal for avoiding direct sunlight during the morning hours on this eastbound flight. Look out for the distinct change in topography when crossing the Ural Mountains. For night flights, you may occasionally catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis during periods of high solar activity, as you are flying at a relatively high latitude.
Distance: 3,375 km (2,097 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 58 min
Departure: SVO (55.972599, 37.4146)
Arrival: ABA (53.7400016784668, 91.38500213623048)
Route Type: Domestic
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