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CAN → KMG
Which side of the plane to sit from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (Guangzhou) to Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most scenic approach into Kunming, featuring expansive views of Dianchi Lake and the vibrant red soil of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, with better lighting during afternoon flights.
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Pearl River Delta
Breathtaking views of Guangzhou's urban density and the winding Pearl River immediately after takeoff.
Shiwan Dashan
The southern ridges of the Guangxi mountains, presenting a sea of green peaks during the mid-flight phase.
Dianchi Lake
The massive 'Sparkling Pearl of the Plateau,' visible as a vast blue expanse during the descent into Kunming.
South Kunming Urban Sprawl
View of the rapidly expanding residential districts nestled between the plateau hills and the lakeshore.
Yunnan Red Earth
The striking iron-rich, oxidized soil that creates a patchwork of vibrant red and orange fields below.
On afternoon flights, the left side benefits from the sun being behind the plane or to the south, reducing glare. This side is essential if you want to see Dianchi Lake, which is the highlight of the approach. During spring, look for the yellow rapeseed blossoms in the plateau valleys.
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Guangxi Karst peaks
To the north of the flight path, look for the iconic limestone 'tower karst' landscape typical of the Guilin region.
Hongshui River
A major tributary cutting deep, scenic valleys through the rugged terrain of central Guangxi.
Nanling Mountain Range
The natural geographic border between Guangdong and the western provinces, featuring steep forested ridges.
Kunming City Center
A dense cluster of skyscrapers and urban infrastructure visible as the flight enters the Kunming basin.
Plateau Cloudscapes
Unique high-altitude cumulus formations that often gather over the edge of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau.
Choose the right side for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. It provides a better angle for viewing the more dramatic, jagged karst formations located to the north of the air corridor. Keep a lookout for the high-speed rail lines cutting through the mountains.
Book Hotels in KunmingDistance: 1,068 km (664 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: CAN (23.39240074157715, 113.29900360107422)
Arrival: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Route Type: Domestic
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