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Moscow Suburbs

Sprawling urban developments and forest patches south of the capital shortly after takeoff.

Volga River

Aerial views of Russia's most famous river as it flows toward the Caspian Sea near the flight path.

Greater Caucasus Range

Stunning panoramas of snow-capped peaks and Mount Elbrus, the highest point in Europe, visible on clear days.

Turkish Coastline

The beautiful entry point where the Black Sea meets the green, rugged mountains of northern Turkey.

Pontic Mountains

Lush, high-altitude ridges that separate the humid coast from the dry Anatolian interior.

Ankara Approaches

Views of the modern residential expansions and rocky outcrops in the northern part of the Turkish capital.

Southern Steppes

The vast, geometric patterns of Russia's fertile southern agricultural heartland and black-earth regions.

Don River Basin

Glancing views of the lower Don river system as it winds toward the Sea of Azov.

Sochi Riviera

The visible coastline of the famous resort city as the plane begins its crossing of the Black Sea.

Black Sea Horizon

Deep blue waters stretching toward the western horizon during the long mid-flight segment.

Karabuk Mountains

The rugged, rocky terrain and deep valleys of northern Turkey's industrial heartland.

Anatolian Plateau

The unique, arid landscape and rolling golden-brown hills characteristic of the region surrounding Ankara.