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VKO → LED
Which side of the plane to sit from Vnukovo International Airport (Moscow) to Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior vantage point for the Moscow City skyline upon departure and the spectacular Imperial palaces of Tsarskoye Selo during the final approach to St. Petersburg.
Moscow City Skyscrapers
The modern glass towers of Moscow's financial district are often visible shortly after taking off from Vnukovo.
Volga River Crossing
A spectacular view of Russia's mother river as the plane crosses near the town of Tver.
Vyshny Volochyok Reservoir
A complex network of canals and water bodies known as the 'Russian Venice' from above.
Catherine Palace
The iconic bright blue and gold facade of the palace in Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo) is clearly visible on the right during descent.
St. Petersburg Panorama
If the flight approaches from the east, you can see the Lakhta Center (Europe's tallest building) and the Gulf of Finland.
The right side is the 'Imperial Side.' For the best experience, book a window seat away from the wing to see the Catherine Palace in Pushkin. During morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for photos of the Moscow skyline and St. Petersburg landmarks.
Valday National Park
Dense, pristine forests and rolling hills of the Valday Heights, a protected Russian natural treasure.
Lake Ilmen
A massive, shallow ancient lake visible to the west, historically significant for the Viking trade routes.
Gatchina Palace
The grand residence of Paul I, recognizable by its unique stone facade and expansive English-style parkland.
M11 Neva Motorway
The modern high-speed highway appearing as a silver ribbon cutting through the deep green Russian Taiga.
Sit on the left if you prefer nature and sunset views. On evening flights, the sun sets over the Baltic side, creating a beautiful orange glow over the lakes. Watch for the distinctive Gatchina towers about 5-7 minutes before touchdown.
Distance: 625 km (388 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 3 min
Departure: VKO (55.591499328599994, 37.2615013123)
Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)
Route Type: Domestic
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