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SVO → RIX
Which side of the plane to sit from Sheremetyevo International Airport (Moscow) to Riga International Airport (Riga)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this route, offering potential distant views of the Moscow skyline during departure and, most importantly, the best perspective of Riga's historic city center and the Daugava River during the final approach descent.
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Moscow Western Districts
After takeoff from SVO, you may see the modern skyscrapers of Moscow City and the western residential sprawl.
Tver Forests
Dense clusters of the Russian taiga and the winding upper reaches of the Volga River basin.
Riga Old Town
As the plane aligns for landing at RIX, the iconic spires of Old Riga and the Vanšu Bridge are often visible.
Daugava River
The massive waterway that splits the Latvian capital, visible in its full glory during the descent.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. For evening flights, the sun sets to the west, so the left side will catch the golden hour light over the Latvian landscape. During winter, look for the frozen patterns on the Daugava River.
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SVO Airport Complex
Depending on the runway, you get a bird's-eye view of the Sheremetyevo terminals and massive hangar facilities.
Valdai Hills
Distant views of the undulating hills and small lakes that characterize the border between the Moscow and Tver regions.
Jūrmala Coastline
On approach from the north or west, catch the long white-sand beaches of the famous Baltic resort town.
Gulf of Riga
The vast, calm waters of the Baltic Sea gulf are prominent if the aircraft circles over the water before landing.
The right side is excellent if you prefer coastal views. On morning flights, this side remains in the shade, making it easier to take photos of the Gulf of Riga and Jūrmala without glare. Watch for the Kemeri National Park wetlands just before touchdown.
Book Hotels in RigaDistance: 832 km (517 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: SVO (55.972599, 37.4146)
Arrival: RIX (56.92359924316406, 23.971099853515625)
Route Type: International
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