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SVO → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Sheremetyevo International Airport (Moscow) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior combination of major Siberian landmarks, the most dramatic views of Lake Baikal's southern tip, and a better chance to see the Great Wall during the approach into Beijing.
Kazan & Volga River
Early in the flight, look for the historic skyline of Kazan where the Volga and Kazanka rivers meet.
Lake Baikal & Irkutsk
Unrivaled views of the southern crescent of Baikal and the mouth of the Angara River, a highlight of the journey.
Mongolian Steppes
The endless, rolling green and brown grasslands of Mongolia, occasionally dotted with nomadic settlements.
Gobi Desert
The stark, beautiful transition into the arid dunes and rocky outcrops of the northern Gobi.
The Great Wall
During the final descent into PEK, segments of the Ming-era Great Wall are often visible snaking across mountain ridges.
For the best experience, monitor the flight map about 5 to 6 hours after takeoff to prepare for Lake Baikal. During the approach into Beijing (usually from the north), the right side is significantly better for spotting the Great Wall. Use a morning flight to avoid the harsh glare of the afternoon sun.
West Siberian Taiga
Vast stretches of untouched coniferous forests and winding river systems typical of the Russian North.
Northern Ural Mountains
The ancient geological border between Europe and Asia, featuring rugged, snow-capped peaks.
Lake Baikal North Shore
The deep blue expanse of the world's deepest lake, often frozen in intricate patterns during winter months.
Yanshan Mountains
Jagged mountain ridges that define the northern edge of the North China Plain as you descend.
Choose this side if you are flying at night during winter for a potential glimpse of the Aurora Borealis over the Siberian wilderness. In summer, the late evening sun provides a golden glow over the massive river deltas of the Ob and Yenisei.
Distance: 5,795 km (3,601 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 49 min
Departure: SVO (55.972599, 37.4146)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: International
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