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TSE → LED
Which side of the plane to sit from Astana International Airport (Tselinograd) to Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers superior views of the northern Russian geography, the massive Rybinsk Reservoir, and a more favorable angle for the approach over Lake Ladoga into the historic city of St. Petersburg.
Ural Foothills
The southern edge of the Ural mountain range marking the geographical border between Asia and Europe.
Rybinsk Reservoir
The enormous 'Rybinsk Sea' on the upper Volga, one of the largest man-made bodies of water in the world.
Lake Ladoga
Views of Europe's largest freshwater lake as the plane begins its descent into the Leningrad region.
St. Petersburg Panorama
A stunning view of the Neva River delta, the Hermitage, and the historic imperial city layout.
Lakhta Center
The sleek glass spire of Europe's tallest building visible on the shores of the Gulf of Finland during the final approach.
The Right Side is ideal for photography as it remains in the shade, avoiding solar glare. For the best views of St. Petersburg's historic center and Lake Ladoga, choose a seat behind the wing. During the winter months, the frozen landscapes of the northern reservoirs provide a dramatic, monochromatic geometric pattern that is best captured from this side.
Kazakh Steppe
Endless horizons of the northern Kazakh plains immediately after departure from Astana.
Volga River
A crossing of Russia's most iconic river near the industrial hub of Samara.
Oka River Valley
Winding river systems and historic settlements in the Ryazan region south of Moscow.
On this westbound flight, the sun will be positioned to the south, meaning the left side will experience significant glare and heat for most of the duration. Use your window shade to keep the cabin cool, but peek out during the mid-flight crossing of the Volga River for excellent river-bend photography.
Distance: 2,725 km (1,693 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 38 min
Departure: TSE (51.02220153808594, 71.46690368652344)
Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)
Route Type: International
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