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VKO → AER
Which side of the plane to sit from Vnukovo International Airport (Moscow) to Sochi International Airport (Sochi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route because it offers a front-row seat to the stunning Greater Caucasus Mountains and the iconic Olympic Park facilities during the final descent into Sochi.
Southern Moscow Suburbs
Aerial views of the sprawling Moscow metropolitan area and the dense forests of the Moscow Oblast immediately after takeoff.
Voronezh Reservoir
A massive man-made lake on the Voronezh River, often visible as a shimmering blue landmark mid-flight.
Kuban Steppe
The endless, geometric patterns of Russia's southern agricultural heartland, vibrant green in spring and golden in late summer.
Greater Caucasus Range
Dramatic, snow-capped peaks appearing as you approach the Krasnodar region, marking the border with Georgia.
Olympic Park (Sirius)
The 'Fisht' Stadium and other 2014 Winter Olympic venues are clearly visible on the left during the final approach.
Sit on the left for the 'Olympic View.' As the plane turns over the Black Sea to line up with the runway, you will see the mountains meeting the sea. For night flights, the Olympic Park is beautifully illuminated. Early morning flights provide the best lighting for the Caucasus peaks, as the sun rises in the east.
The Oka River
The winding curves of one of Russia's largest rivers shortly after departure from Vnukovo.
Sea of Azov (Distant)
On clear days, the shimmering horizon of the shallowest sea in the world can be spotted to the west near Rostov-on-Don.
Black Sea Horizon
The vast, deep blue expanse of the Black Sea dominates the view as the aircraft begins its descent sequence.
Adler Coastline
A close-up view of the beaches and coastal resorts just moments before the wheels touch down.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights, as you will see the sun dipping into the Black Sea. During the landing, while the left side sees the stadium, the right side sees the endless water. It is generally a more peaceful, blue-dominated view compared to the dramatic terrain on the left.
Distance: 1,364 km (848 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 49 min
Departure: VKO (55.591499328599994, 37.2615013123)
Arrival: AER (43.449902, 39.9566)
Route Type: Domestic
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