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SVO destination photo
URC destination photo

SVOURC

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers more dramatic geographic diversity, including the majestic Volga River bends, the arid Kazakh steppes, and a breathtaking approach toward the snow-capped Tian Shan mountains.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Moscow Skyline

Distant views of the Kremlin and the Seven Sisters skyscrapers shortly after takeoff from SVO.

🌊

Volga River

The majestic curves of Europe's longest river as it snakes through the Russian heartland.

🏜️

Kazakh Steppe

Dramatic transition into the arid, golden landscapes and salt flats of northern Kazakhstan.

🏔️

Tian Shan Mountains

Spectacular views of the 'Celestial Mountains' with snow-capped peaks reaching over 5,000 meters.

🚩

Bogda Peak

The highest peak in the eastern Tian Shan, visible on the final approach into Urumqi.

Sit on the right for the best light as you will be facing south-southeast. During the final 45 minutes of the flight, the terrain becomes extremely mountainous; look for the Bogda Peak which is most prominent on this side. If flying during the day, the sunlight will highlight the textures of the Kazakh desert and the glacial features of the Tian Shan range.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

Russian Taiga

Endless expanses of dense boreal forests and wetlands typical of central Russia.

🏔️

Ural Mountains

The ancient mountain ridge that marks the boundary between Europe and Asia.

🚜

Siberian Farmland

A patchwork of agricultural fields transitioning into the vast West Siberian Plain.

❄️

Altai Foothills

Distant views of the northern Altai mountain peaks near the border intersection.

The left side is ideal for night flights if you wish to avoid direct moonlight, and provides a clear view of the deep green taiga during summer months. In winter, this side showcases a pristine, uninterrupted white landscape across the Siberian lowlands.

Top Activities in Urumqi
Route Information

Distance: 3,729 km (2,317 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 23 min

Departure: SVO (55.972599, 37.4146)

Arrival: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)

Route Type: International

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