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WAW → LED
Which side of the plane to sit from Warsaw Chopin Airport (Warsaw) to Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the preferred choice for this route as it offers a superior panoramic view of the Baltic coastline, the intricate Estonian archipelago, and the scenic approach into St. Petersburg over the Gulf of Finland and Kronstadt.
Baltic Sea Coastline
As the plane heads northeast, witness the rugged transition between the Baltic mainland and the sea along the Latvian and Estonian coasts.
Estonian Archipelago
Stunning aerial views of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa islands, featuring unique forest patterns and coastal inlets visible from high altitude.
Gulf of Finland
Watch the busy maritime shipping lanes of the Gulf as you enter Russian airspace, often dotted with cargo ships and ferries.
Kronstadt Naval Base
On the final approach, the historic island of Kotlin and the golden dome of the Naval Cathedral provide a landmark entry to the Neva Bay.
Book a window seat on the left to maximize views of the water-land contrast. During late spring and early summer, evening flights take advantage of the 'White Nights' phenomenon, providing visibility long into the night. Look for the massive St. Petersburg Dam just before landing, which is best viewed from this side.
Masurian Lake District
Shortly after takeoff from Warsaw, look down to see the mosaic of over 2,000 lakes scattered across the green landscape of northern Poland.
Baltic Forest Landscapes
Extensive stretches of dense, dark green pine and birch forests across Lithuania and Latvia offer a serene, natural view.
Lake Peipus
View one of Europe's largest lakes, which marks the significant natural border between the European Union and Russia.
Imperial Estates
During the descent into Pulkovo, the right side may offer views of the grand parks and palaces in Gatchina or Pavlovsk depending on the approach path.
The Masurian Lake District is most vibrant in the morning light shortly after departure. If the flight path takes you further inland, the right side provides a better perspective of the vast agricultural plains of the Baltics. Ensure your window is clean, as the low sun in the late afternoon can cause significant glare on this side.
Distance: 1,025 km (637 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: WAW (52.1656990051, 20.9671001434)
Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)
Route Type: International
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