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BAV → URC
Which side of the plane to sit from Baotou Airport (Baotou) to Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (Urumqi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the Gobi Desert's vastness and a breathtaking close-up of the Bogda Peak as you approach Urumqi.
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Gobi-Altai Transition
Witness the rugged transition from the Inner Mongolian grasslands to the harsh, rocky Gobi terrain.
Ejin Banner Poplars
If flying in autumn, look for the golden patches of the famous Populus euphratica forests along the Heihe River.
Bogda Peak
The crown jewel of the eastern Tianshan, this 5,445m snow-capped summit is a landmark during the descent into Urumqi.
Barkol Lake
A high-altitude alpine lake that appears as a shimmering turquoise jewel amidst the arid mountains.
Urumqi Skyline
Aerial views of the sprawling regional capital set against the backdrop of the massive Tianshan range.
The right side is premier for mountain photography. Sit in the front or rear of the cabin to ensure the wing doesn't block Bogda Peak during the bank into Urumqi. Afternoon flights provide the best lighting for the desert colors on this side.
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Badain Jaran Desert
View the northern fringes of some of the world's tallest stationary sand dunes and remote desert basins.
Qilian Mountain Range
Distant views of the snow-capped Qilian peaks to the south, marking the edge of the Tibetan Plateau.
Flaming Mountains
The striking red sandstone hills near Turpan are visible as the flight enters the Xinjiang region.
Hami Oases
Notice the stark contrast between the barren desert and the lush, irrigated agricultural pockets of Hami.
To avoid glare, choose the left side on morning flights. During the final hour of the flight, look for the unique 'Karez' irrigation patterns on the ground near Turpan. Seasonal dust storms in spring can occasionally obscure the desert floor.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 1,885 km (1,171 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 31 min
Departure: BAV (40.560001373291016, 109.99700164794922)
Arrival: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)
Route Type: Domestic
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