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AMS → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Caucasus Mountains, the vast expanse of the Taklamakan Desert, and the best opportunity to spot the Great Wall of China during the descent into Beijing.
Caucasus Mountains
Stunning snow-capped peaks including Mount Elbrus, the highest point in Europe.
Southern Caspian Sea
Deep blue waters contrasting with the arid landscapes of Turkmenistan.
Taklamakan Desert
Ethereal views of shifting sand dunes in one of the world's largest sandy deserts.
Pamir Mountains
Distal views of the 'Roof of the World' with high-altitude glacial peaks.
The Great Wall
Look for the winding fortifications in the rugged hills north of Beijing during arrival.
The right side is the 'money side' for this route. To see the Great Wall, keep your eyes peeled roughly 20-30 minutes before landing. Be aware that this side faces south, so window shades may need to be lowered during peak daylight to avoid the intense sun over the deserts.
Caspian Sea Coast
Aerial view of the northern shores of the world's largest inland body of water.
Kyzylkum Desert
Striking red sand formations across Central Asia's vast desert landscape.
Tian Shan Mountains
The northern slopes of the 'Heavenly Mountains' bordering Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.
Inner Mongolian Steppe
Expansive green and brown grasslands as you cross into Northern China.
Hohhot Cityscape
The urban sprawl of Inner Mongolia's capital visible before the final descent.
Choose the left side if you prefer views of the northern steppe and the unique geography of the Aral Sea remnants. During winter months, this side offers better lighting for photographing the frozen landscapes of Central Asia without direct sun glare.
Distance: 7,827 km (4,863 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 12 min
Departure: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: International
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