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AKU → URC
Which side of the plane to sit from Aksu Airport (Aksu) to Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (Urumqi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic, snow-capped peaks of the Tianshan Mountains and massive glacier systems throughout the flight.
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Tianshan High Peaks
Continuous views of the majestic snow-capped peaks of the central Tianshan range throughout the flight.
Tomur Peak Region
Spectacular views of the rugged terrain surrounding Jengish Chokusu, the highest point in the Tianshan range.
Glacial Valleys
Deeply carved glacial valleys and ancient ice flows visible during the mid-portion of the flight path.
Urumqi Approach
Birds-eye view of the northern slopes and the sprawling urban landscape of Urumqi during the final descent.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and capture the best shadows on the mountain ridges. Look out for the stark contrast between the white snow and dark rock faces. Keep your camera ready as soon as you reach cruising altitude as the mountain views begin almost immediately after takeoff from Aksu.
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Tarim Basin Edge
The northern edge of the Taklamakan Desert where vast sand dunes meet the base of the rising mountains.
Alluvial Fans
Intricate geological patterns formed by seasonal rivers flowing from the mountains into the desert basin below.
Foothill Oases
Small pockets of bright green agricultural land clinging to the mountain base near the desert's edge.
Chaiwopu Lake
A notable freshwater lake located just south of Urumqi, visible shortly before landing.
The right side is excellent for late afternoon flights as the setting sun illuminates the warm desert colors. Watch for the 'zebra-like' geological patterns of the alluvial fans near the mountain bases. On clear days, the vastness of the Tarim Basin to the south is awe-inspiring and provides a sense of scale for the Taklamakan Desert.
Book Hotels in UrumqiDistance: 657 km (408 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 6 min
Departure: AKU (41.262501, 80.291702)
Arrival: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)
Route Type: Domestic
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