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BHY → XIY
Which side of the plane to sit from Beihai Airport (Beihai) to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (Xi'an)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides an exceptional view of the Silver Beach at departure and a panoramic perspective of the Wei River valley and the ancient city layout of Xi'an during the final approach.
Beihai Silver Beach
A brilliant aerial view of one of China's most famous white-sand beaches immediately after takeoff.
Liuzhou Karst Formations
Excellent views of the unique limestone topography surrounding the winding rivers of central Guangxi.
Yangtze Tributaries
Crossing the winding Wu River and other major tributaries that carve deep canyons through the Guizhou and Chongqing mountains.
Eastern Qinling Peaks
On clear days, the distant silhouette of the famous Mount Huashan may be visible to the far northeast.
Xi'an Ancient City
During the descent into XIY, the right side often provides a better view of the city's grid-like layout and the ancient city walls.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to see the sun rising over the karst landscape. Pay close attention during the last 20 minutes of the flight; the approach path often circles the city of Xi'an, providing a perfect view of the urban sprawl and historical landmarks. Look for the distinct yellow hue of the Loess Plateau as you enter Shaanxi province.
Gulf of Tonkin Coastline
As you climb out of Beihai, the aircraft mirrors the coastline, offering views of the turquoise waters and the Hepu peninsula.
Guangxi Karst Landscape
Stunning limestone peaks and 'sugarloaf' hills characteristic of the region emerge as you fly over central Guangxi.
Guizhou Highlands
A sea of rugged, mist-covered mountains and deep river valleys as the plane crosses into the Guizhou plateau.
Western Qinling Range
The massive geological divide between North and South China, featuring snow-capped peaks during winter months.
Wei River Plain
The fertile valley opens up as the descent begins, showcasing the contrast between the mountains and the flat agricultural basin.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side offers a more continuous view of the rugged mountain ridges of the Daba and Qinling ranges. Keep your camera ready as you cross the Qinling Mountains; the transition from lush green to the arid north is often sharp.
Distance: 1,436 km (892 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 55 min
Departure: BHY (21.5394, 109.293999)
Arrival: XIY (34.447102, 108.751999)
Route Type: Domestic
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