[Greysard]

It takes 9 hours to fly from European part of Russia to New York, but at the same time 11 to 14 hours to fly from Saint Petersburg to Vladivostok at Russian Pacific Coast. And Nork leaders traditionally distrusts air travel.

Perhaps Kim is afraid personally, but he is certainly not afraid for the life of his envoy.

Out of curiosity I have searched for flights from VVO to SVO on expedia.com, and for example Aeroflot flight 1703 (BOEING 777-300ER) is a 9 hours 00 minutes non-stop flight, for just $189.08 incl. taxes and fees. I cannot imagine that one could pay that little for a week in a train. Just the food alone will cost more.

[wetphoenix]

Well, last time I flew it took 13,5 hours with two stops for refueling in B-737.
I can expect 9 hours non-stop with IL-96 or B-777 which is still longer than regular trans-Atlantic flight.

[wetphoenix]

BTW, You have probably fond specials for tickets because regular price is at least twice as much.
As for train it probably starts at $150 for ‘platzcart’ class and it takes 6 to 8 days normally.