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YKS destination photo
LED destination photo

YKSLED

Which side of the plane to sit from Yakutsk Airport (Yakutsk) to Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior lighting for photography and prime views of Lake Ladoga during the descent into St. Petersburg.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
❄️

Arctic Tundra

Aerial perspectives of the permafrost landscapes and thousands of thermokarst lakes in the north.

⛰️

Putorana Plateau Edge

Distant views of the dramatic, flat-topped basalt mountains to the north of the flight path.

💧

Ob River Crossing

The wide, meandering path of one of Russia's great rivers cutting through the West Siberian Plain.

🌊

Lake Ladoga

A stunning view of Europe's largest lake and its rugged shoreline during the approach to Pulkovo.

The right side is ideal for photography because it faces away from the sun on this westbound route, providing softer light. Keep a close watch about 30-40 minutes before landing; if the approach is from the east, you will get a spectacular panoramic view of Lake Ladoga and the Neva River delta.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Lena River Valley

Dramatic views of the massive Lena River system immediately after departing Yakutsk.

🌲

Siberian Taiga

Dense, endless stretches of coniferous forests across the Central Siberian Plateau.

🏔️

Ural Mountains

The geographical border between Asia and Europe, featuring rugged ridges and snow-dusted peaks.

🏗️

Cherepovets Industrial Zone

Visible industrial complexes and the vast Rybinsk Reservoir as you enter European Russia.

Sit on the left if you enjoy seeing the sun cross the sky, but be prepared for significant glare during daytime flights. This side is better for spotting the Southern Urals if the flight path shifts south. During winter, look for the geometric patterns of logging roads in the deep snow of the taiga.

Top Activities in St. Petersburg
Route Information

Distance: 4,842 km (3,009 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 42 min

Departure: YKS (62.093299865722656, 129.77099609375)

Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)

Route Type: Domestic

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