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CAN → VTE
Which side of the plane to sit from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (Guangzhou) to Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular view of the rugged mountain ranges and unique karst formations that define the border regions of China, Vietnam, and Laos.
Guangxi Karst Mountains
Distinctive limestone peaks that look like a traditional Chinese ink wash painting, particularly impressive near the border regions.
Hoang Lien Son Mountains
The rugged, cloud-topped ridges of the Indochinese Peninsula's highest range stretching across northern Vietnam.
Indochina Highlands
Densely forested, undulating mountains of northern Laos that remain largely untouched and emerald green year-round.
Nam Ngum Reservoir
A sprawling turquoise man-made lake with numerous islands, visible just before descending into the Vientiane valley.
The right side provides the most dramatic and constant topography. This side stays in the shade for much of the day on this southwest heading, making it perfect for photography without cabin window glare. From February to April, be aware that agricultural haze can significantly reduce visibility, so morning flights are recommended during these months.
Pearl River Delta
The dense urban landscape and complex bridge networks of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong megalopolis during departure.
Gulf of Tonkin Coastline
Views of the coastal strip where the South China Sea meets the Guangxi province, showing sandy beaches and ports.
Red River Delta
The intensive agricultural patchwork and winding distributaries of northern Vietnam's most fertile region.
Mekong River Bends
The massive, silt-heavy Mekong River appearing as a golden ribbon near the final approach into Vientiane.
The left side is excellent for seeing the transition from the South China Sea coast to the interior plains. Early morning flights are best for capturing the sunrise over the Pearl River Delta, though the sun will eventually be on this side of the aircraft. During the wet season (May-October), the Mekong River on this side is particularly wide and impressive.
Distance: 1,267 km (787 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 41 min
Departure: CAN (23.39240074157715, 113.29900360107422)
Arrival: VTE (17.988300323500003, 102.56300354)
Route Type: International
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