VKO → GUW

Moscow Outskirts

Aerial views of the southern administrative okrugs and the sprawling forests of the Meshchersky Park shortly after departure from VKO.

The Volga River

A magnificent crossing over the Saratov Reservoir, where the river is at its widest, featuring the long bridges connecting Saratov and Engels.

Russian Heartland

The transition from the lush green agricultural plots of the Ryazan region to the more arid, golden-hued fields of the southern plains.

Ural River Delta

During the final descent, the winding path of the Ural River becomes visible, marking the boundary between the European and Asian continents.

Atyrau Lowlands

The unique, flat topography of the Caspian Depression, dotted with industrial sites reflecting the region's oil-rich economy.

Tula Forest-Steppe

The rolling hills and mixed deciduous forests of the Central Russian Upland visible during the first third of the journey.

Salt Pans

Distant glimpses of white salt crusts and seasonal 'limans' (estuaries) that characterize the arid landscape near the Kazakh border.

Caspian Horizon

As the flight nears Atyrau, the shimmering horizon to the south indicates the proximity of the northern Caspian Sea coast.

Semi-Desert Terrain

Intricate patterns created by wind erosion and dry creek beds in the vast, uninhabited stretches of the Western Kazakhstan steppe.

Atyrau Cityscape

Views of the urban development and industrial infrastructure on the western bank of the Ural River during the final approach.