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UGC → LED
Which side of the plane to sit from Urgench Airport (Urgench) to Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior vantage point for the vast Kyzylkum desert formations early in the flight and the spectacular descent over Lake Ladoga and the Neva River delta entering St. Petersburg.
Kyzylkum Desert
Vibrant red and golden sand dunes of one of Central Asia's largest deserts immediately after departure.
Southern Ural Foothills
The rolling hills marking the southern tip of the Ural Mountains, the boundary between Europe and Asia.
Taiga Transition
The dramatic shift from the arid Kazakh steppes to the deep, dense green forests of Northern Russia.
Lake Ladoga
Europe's largest freshwater lake, often visible during the descent with its numerous forested islands.
St. Petersburg Approach
Stunning views of the Neva River, the Peter and Paul Fortress, and the city's historic imperial grid.
The right side is essential for the arrival into St. Petersburg; if the plane approaches from the east, you will see the incredible scale of Lake Ladoga. For photography, the morning light illuminates the desert dunes beautifully. Watch for the Lakhta Center (Europe's tallest building) on the horizon during the final approach into Pulkovo.
Aral Sea Basin
Distant views of the western remains of the Aral Sea and the dramatic 'Aralkum' desert floor.
Volga River Crossing
Aerial view of the massive Volga River near Saratov, showing its wide channels and industrial banks.
Moscow Outskirts
Distant views of the Moscow metropolitan area's western sprawl and the dense network of radial highways.
Lake Ilmen
A historic lake near Veliky Novgorod, surrounded by lush wetlands and ancient Russian settlements.
Sit on the left for the best views of the receding Aral Sea shortly after takeoff. During night flights, this side offers the best views of the brightly lit urban centers of Saratov and the distant glow of Moscow. Ensure your window is clear of frost to capture the subtle color changes in the salt flats of the Aral basin.
Distance: 2,899 km (1,801 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 52 min
Departure: UGC (41.58430099487305, 60.6417007446289)
Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)
Route Type: International
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