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TBS → VKO
Which side of the plane to sit from Tbilisi International Airport (Tbilisi) to Vnukovo International Airport (Moscow)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the highest peaks of the Greater Caucasus Mountains, including the iconic Mount Elbrus, followed by sweeping views of the Russian plains and a strategic perspective of Moscow's western approach.
Greater Caucasus Peaks
Witness the dramatic jagged peaks and glaciers of the Caucasus range immediately after takeoff from Tbilisi.
Mount Elbrus
Look west to spot the twin-coned dormant volcano, Europe's highest peak, towering over the surrounding mountain range.
Stavropol Upland
Observe the transition from high-altitude terrain to the undulating hills and agricultural mosaics of southern Russia.
Don River Meanders
The winding curves of the mighty Don River are visible as the flight progresses north through the Voronezh region.
Western Moscow Suburbs
During the descent into Vnukovo, the left side often provides clear views of the Odintsovo district and lush forested zones.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing for unobstructed photos of the Caucasus. For morning flights, the left side avoids direct glare, while evening flights offer spectacular sunset views over the Russian steppes. Keep your camera ready in the first 20 minutes for the mountain crossing.
Mount Kazbek
A stunning view of this prominent 5,033m peak located right on the border between Georgia and Russia.
Kuban Steppe
Expansive views of Russia's 'breadbasket' with its distinct rectangular field patterns stretching to the horizon.
Voronezh Forest Belts
Detailed views of the complex irrigation and forest conservation belts used in Russian agriculture.
Tula and Lipetsk
On clear days, the industrial centers and urban grids of these historic cities can be seen to the east.
Vnukovo Terminal View
The right side often faces the main airport terminal and hangars during the final taxi after landing at VKO.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to catch the sunrise over the Caspian depression in the distance. While you miss Elbrus, the views of the eastern Caucasus peaks are more intimate. Watch for the change in landscape from arid mountains to deep green northern forests near Moscow.
Distance: 1,646 km (1,023 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min
Departure: TBS (41.6692008972, 44.95470047)
Arrival: VKO (55.591499328599994, 37.2615013123)
Route Type: International
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