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VKO → MLE
Which side of the plane to sit from Vnukovo International Airport (Moscow) to Malé International Airport (Male)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the Caucasus mountains, the vibrant lights of the Persian Gulf cities, and the rugged Hajar range, while providing better lighting for the Maldivian approach.
Caucasus Range
Snow-capped peaks including distant views of Mount Elbrus on clear days.
Baku and Caspian Coast
The sparkling lights of Azerbaijan's capital and the western Caspian shoreline.
Dubai Skyline
Depending on the specific airway, the Burj Khalifa and Palm islands may be visible.
Hajar Mountains
The dramatic, jagged limestone peaks of Oman as you exit the Arabian Peninsula.
North Malé Atoll
Crystal clear views of luxury resorts and sandbanks during the final approach to MLE.
The right side is generally preferred because the sun will be on the opposite side during a morning arrival, preventing glare and window reflections. This makes for much better photography of the Maldivian lagoons. It also offers the best chance to see the architectural wonders of the UAE coast.
Volga River Delta
The intricate waterways where Russia's great river meets the Caspian Sea.
Dasht-e Kavir
The vast, alien-like salt deserts of central Iran with unique geological folds.
Indian Ocean Sunrise
A breathtaking dawn over the water as the flight nears the equator.
Lhaviyani Atoll
Deep blue ocean contrasting with the brilliant turquoise rings of the northern atolls.
Speedboat Wakes
From high above, see the white trails of boats connecting remote resort islands.
Since most flights from Moscow are overnight, the left side is the first to see the sunrise. It is ideal for those who want to watch the transition from night to day over the Arabian Sea. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the circular reef patterns of the eastern atolls.
Distance: 6,563 km (4,078 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 43 min
Departure: VKO (55.591499328599994, 37.2615013123)
Arrival: MLE (4.1918301582336435, 73.52909851074219)
Route Type: International
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