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AMS → CTU
Which side of the plane to sit from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam) to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Chengdu)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a breathtaking perspective of the high-altitude ranges of Central Asia and the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, ending with a dramatic descent into the Sichuan Basin.
Caspian Sea
The deep blue expanse of the world's largest inland body of water, often visible on southern flight paths.
Tian Shan Range
The 'Celestial Mountains' featuring massive glaciers and jagged peaks that stay snow-covered year-round.
Tibetan Plateau
The 'Roof of the World' showcasing a high-altitude wilderness of frozen lakes and sparse, majestic terrain.
Min Mountains
The rugged limestone peaks that form the final barrier before the steep descent into the Sichuan Basin.
This side is essential for the arrival phase into Chengdu. Try to stay awake for the final 90 minutes of the flight; the transition from the 5,000-meter peaks of the Tibetan Plateau to the lush, low-lying Sichuan plains is one of the most dramatic topographic shifts in world aviation. Early morning arrivals offer the best side-lighting for these mountain ranges.
European Cities
Clear views of the urban sprawl of Berlin and Warsaw during the first few hours of flight.
Ural Mountains
The ancient geographic boundary between Europe and Asia, characterized by long, forested ridges.
Gobi Desert
Vast, shimmering expanses of orange sand and rocky terrain across Northern China.
Qilian Mountains
Dramatic snow-capped peaks that border the Hexi Corridor along the ancient Silk Road route.
This side is ideal for night flights during winter months as it offers the only chance to witness the Aurora Borealis over Russia. Additionally, it remains in the shade for most of the eastbound journey, which is better for glare-free photography of the Siberian and Mongolian landscapes.
Distance: 7,942 km (4,935 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 21 min
Departure: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Arrival: CTU (30.578500747680664, 103.9469985961914)
Route Type: International
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