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BSD → KMG
Which side of the plane to sit from Baoshan Yunduan Airport (Baoshan) to Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the Hengduan Mountains and the iconic Erhai Lake near Dali, which is the scenic highlight of this short regional hop.
Lancang River (Mekong)
Visible shortly after takeoff, this major river carves deep, dramatic canyons through the rugged Yunnan terrain.
Cangshan Mountains
The snow-capped peaks of the Cangshan range provide a jagged horizon to the north as you approach Dali.
Erhai Lake
A stunning ear-shaped alpine lake that sparkles blue against the surrounding mountain backdrop.
Dali Basin
The historical and cultural heart of the region, visible between the mountains and the lakeshore.
Jizu Mountain
A sacred Buddhist peak located northeast of Dali, recognizable by its distinct summit architecture.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see Erhai Lake mid-flight. Morning flights are ideal as the sun is in the southeast, illuminating the Cangshan mountains and the lake surface beautifully without glare. Cloud cover is common in summer, so autumn and winter offer the clearest visibility of the peaks.
Ailao Mountain Range
Dense, subtropical forest ridges that mark the transition between the plateau and the southern valleys.
Anning Industrial Hub
The outskirts of the Kunming metropolitan area, showing the rapid industrial development of the province.
Dianchi Lake
The largest freshwater lake in Yunnan, offering a grand vista during the final descent into Kunming.
Kunming Cityscape
The sprawling 'Spring City' reveals its high-rise skyline and urban density as the plane maneuvers for landing.
Changshui Approach
The descent over the red-soil plateau typical of central Yunnan, featuring unique agricultural patterns.
The right side is best for the final approach phase. As you enter the Kunming basin, Dianchi Lake and the city skyline are most prominent on this side. If flying in the late afternoon, the right side will experience significant glare from the setting sun, so window shades may need to be lowered.
Distance: 379 km (235 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: BSD (25.053301, 99.168297)
Arrival: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Route Type: Domestic
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